The UN Secretary-General on Monday reiterated his deep concern over continuing hostilities between South Sudan and Sudan and urged the two countries to cease fighting and ensure safety of civilians.
Ban Ki-moon called on the Government of Sudan to stop immediately all aerial bombardment on South Sudan territory.He also urged the Government of South Sudan to withdraw its troops immediately from Higlig and use legal and diplomatic means to address the status of the oil-rich area.
Mr Ban called on both parties to end hostilities immediately and respect international humanitarian laws.
The UN chief expressed alarm over reports of a build-up of armed militias in the disputed area of Abyei.
He urged Juba and Khartoum to withdraw all armed elements from the disputed area.