Statement on the situation in Sudan from Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide and Minister of International Development Anne Beathe Kristiansen Tvinnereim

'The conflict has led to the world's largest hunger disaster, with half of the country's population facing crisis levels of hunger. Already, 755 000 people are in acute danger of dying from hunger and 8.5 million are at emergency levels of hunger, according to the United Nations. This situation is completely unacceptable'.

'Norway condemns the obstruction of the delivery of humanitarian assistance. We also condemn the brutal attacks on the civilian population, on hospitals and health facilities'.

'The conflict is now spreading to ever larger parts of Sudan, especially the eastern part of the country. This increases the pressure on neighbouring countries. This is deeply worrying. The parties must ensure that civilians are protected'.

'Time is running out for thousands of children. The warring parties must now allow the UN and other humanitarian organisations to deliver food and humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Physical and administrative obstacles that limit or delay humanitarian access must cease'.

'In the short term, the violence must stop and the parties must comply with their obligation to allow humanitarian access. In the longer term, Sudan needs lasting peace. Only through a broad political process, led by civilians, can Sudan's challenges be overcome' said Ministers Eide and Tvinnereim.

Norway is now increasing its support to the World Food Program's work in Sudan by NOK 20 million. This year, Norway will provide at least NOK 218 million in humanitarian support to Sudan and affected neighboring countries, in addition to flexible funding provided to the UN.