U.S. Relations With the People's Republic of China (2008)

U.S. Department of State

Press Statement
Sean McCormack, Spokesman
Washington, DC
October 21, 2008

Abduction of Workers in South Kordofan State, Sudan

The United States expresses its deep concern for the well-being of nine Chinese and Sudanese workers reportedly kidnapped on October 18 in South Kordofan State. The parties responsible for the kidnapping must release the workers immediately and without harm.

The United States deplores all violence in Sudan. Such insecurity threatens all actors in Sudan – from the civilian population to international aid workers and peacekeepers to private citizens – and undermines the prospects for peace throughout the country. We express hope that an expeditious investigation will bring the perpetrators of these cowardly acts to justice.

The United States reiterates its call for the speedy deployment of the United Nations-African Union Mission in Darfur as a means of stemming insecurity in Darfur. We also call upon the United Nations Mission in the Sudan to fully implement its mandate in response to such insecurity in other parts of Sudan.

2008/897

Released on October 21, 2008