MEPs debate Sudan-South Sudan crisis

MEPs have called for an end to the ongoing conflict between Sudan and newly created state South Sudan, during a debate in the European Parliament on 23 May 2012.

They expressed concerns about the deteriorating relations between the two nations after heavy border fighting last month raised fears of a return to war.

MEPs from across the political situation also raised concerns about the "worsening" humanitarian crisis.

The UN has warned that more than half the population of South Sudan - which gained independence from its northern neighbour last July - are facing food shortages because of the continuing conflict.

The international body has threatened sanctions if the situation is not resolved swiftly.

Danish minister for EU affairs Nicolai Wammen urged Sudan and South Sudan to come together to reach a settlement.

He pledged the EU would continue to work with the African Union and international bodies to try to resolve the situation.

Mr Wammen was addressing the plenary on behalf of Baroness Ashton, the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs.

The parliament went on to discuss the situation in Guinnea-Bissau, which is being ruled by a military junta.

Guinea-Bissau, one of the world's poorest country, was just weeks away from holding a presidential run-off vote when a coup took place last month.

A West African peacekeeping force has been deployed to the country by regional bloc Ecowashas to bring stability.

Useful links:

Democracy Live's guide to how the plenary sessions work.

A disclaimer on the use of simultaneous interpretations, on the European Parliament's website.