4 April 2015 – The United Nations Secretary-General today expressed his disappointment at the failure to hold the Sudanese pre-dialogue meeting in Addis Ababa because of the decision by the ruling National Congress Party and its allies not to attend the meeting.

In a statement released by his Spokesperson today, Ban Ki-moon stressed that a fully inclusive, free and transparent dialogue is critical to addressing the root causes of the recurrent crises in Sudan and achieving sustainable peace, adding that the pre-dialogue meeting would have been an important step in this regard.

He urged all stakeholders to continue to engage constructively towards the early convening of a credible and inclusive National Dialogue and expressed his appreciation to the African Union High-level Implementation Panel for its tireless efforts on Sudan and South Sudan, while reaffirming the continued full support and partnership of the United Nations.