Members of the United Nations Security Council have urged South Sudanese leaders to seize the opportunity to revitalise the peace process offered by a new plan to bring “estranged” groups together, restore the ceasefire, and fully implement the 2015 peace deal.

A joint delegation of UN and government officials have condemned an armed attack on a small community in the Jonglei region of South Sudan in which dozens of people were killed and wounded, children were abducted, and thousands of cattle stolen.

Mr. President,

Honourable Ministers,

Distinguished Members of the Council,

Let me begin by thanking the government of China for convening this meeting to focus on enhancing African capacities in the areas of peace and security.