The statement, issued by CARE, World Vision, International Rescue Committee and Save the Children states, "while addressing the human suffering caused by this war remains the central concern of our agencies, we are equally committed to advocating for the peaceful and permanent resolution to Sudan"s civil war. Peace is the most meaningful and most important goal for the people of Sudan."

The recommendations include:

1. The confidence building measures proposed by Senator Danforth and agreed to by parties to the conflict must be fully implemented, monitored, and reinforced with sustained political action at the highest levels using an appropriate combination of pressure and incentives.
2. The recent progress must quickly lead to an expanded but convergent peace process that engages all parties to the conflict, regional actors, and key members of the international community.
3. The achievement of a just and sustainable peace must be the centerpiece of any Sudan policy. The political skill to solve this entrenched crisis requires sustained, committed and strategic political engagement at the highest level within the U.S. government. Therefore, we call on President Bush to ask the secretary of state to take the leadership role in this effort and to ensure that the United States stays the course.
4. The United States, in collaboration with all parties to the conflict, key members of the international community and regional actors, should commit to long-term, well-coordinated and high-level engagement with Sudan, ensuring that serious negotiations and monitoring efforts are undertaken, and that adequate funding and support are provided.

Additionally, the four humanitarian aid organizations call for accelerated progress in the implementation of Special Envoy Danforth’s proposals, particularly regarding the achievement of full humanitarian access to the Nuba Mountains region.

"We commend the important progress made by Special Envoy for peace in Sudan, former Senator John Danforth," said CARE President Peter D. Bell. "Special Envoy Danforth’s report to President Bush assures us that the United States will continue to encourage all parties to seek a just resolution of the conflict in Sudan."

The full statement can be viewed on CARE's Web site.

• Additional Information:
  http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2002/05/20020514-11.html
• http://www.house.gov/international_relations/kans0605.htm
• http://www.house.gov/international_relations/wint0605.htm
• http://www.house.gov/international_relations/deng0605.htm