More AU monitors needed in Darfur, says Blair

The Prime Minister has called on the Sudanese government to help expand the number of UN-backed troops in Darfur.

Speaking on the second day of his Africa mission, Tony Blair said that the EU was ready to help following "frank and open" talks with the Sudanese government.

Up to 3,500 members of the African Union (AU) force are required to monitor the current situation in Sudan – but there are currently only 100, according to the government. Mr Blair said that Britain would make logistical support in place so as to ensure more AU monitors are put in place as soon as possible.

He added: "We don't actually need these forces in several months' time, we need them now. We will help them gear up as quickly as possible, but my very strong understanding is there is not a desire for outside troops from the European Union or from Britain to come here, although there is a requirement for logistical support and help and financial help and we will give that."

The Prime Minister said the UN Security Council and the international community would continue to monitor the situation "very, very carefully indeed".

"It is important that people in Darfur realise that the international community is determined to assist in any way that it can, that the government of Sudan adheres to its obligations and responsibilities, that the rebel forces likewise recognise that they have responsibilities in this situation and must adhere to them also, and that the international focus will not go away whilst this issue remains outstanding," he said.

The Prime Minister will be travelling to Ethiopia for the second meeting of the Commission for Africa as part of his visit. The first meeting was held in Downing Street in May this year.

(gmcg/mb)