US envoy promotes democracy, human rights during Sudan visit

WASHINGTON, Feb 28 (KUNA) -- During his five-day visit to Sudan last week, US envoy Steve Feldstein met with Sudanese government leaders, representatives of non-governmental organizations and civil society activists, including representatives of Sudan's religious communities, journalists, humanitarian groups and internally displaced persons in Blue Nile State, the State Department announced on Saturday.
"His visit highlights the importance of advancing democracy and human rights in Sudan and resolving the ongoing conflicts in Darfur and the Two Areas," the announcement said. He also reiterated U.S. support for an inclusive and comprehensive National Dialogue to resolve Sudan's conflicts, it said.
The United States in the coming weeks "will be working closely with international partners to encourage and support an inclusive political dialogue, including by continuing to press for a cessation of hostilities in all conflict areas (of Sudan)," the statement said. The United States will continue to condition development of its bilateral relationship with Sudan on the Sudanese government improving its respect for human rights and democratic principles, it said. (end) rm.hb