Bonn, 16th April 2006. Welthungerhilfe (German Agro Action) is critical of Sudan's announcement that it has reached an agreement on the troubled Sudanese region, Darfur. "The Sudanese government is just playing for time", says Hans-Joachim Preuss, Welthungerhilfe's Secretary General. "In the meantime conditions for refugees and the situation of the local population in western Sudan are becoming critical."

Even if the Sudanese government did agree to a 20,000-strong peacekeeping force combining African Union and United Nation troops, this would still "only be enough to protect the refugee camps", according to Preuss. "At least twice the number of troops are necessary to secure peace in the region."

In addition it's imperative to rekindle negotiations between the government and the various rebel groups. "The security situation for the local population and aid agencies has deteriorated because rebel groups are splitting up and criminal gangs are terrorizing people. Negotiations have to start before the embroilment of neighbouring countries causes the situation to spiral out of control."

Preuss doesn't think much of the solitary idea of EU sanctions either. Possible action in this direction is on the agenda for talks between Germany's foreign minister, Steinmeier, and the UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon. "It would be no more than a political gesture and won't change the situation in Darfur in the slightest." Only the United Nations, the African Union and, above all, the Arab League can bring Sudan to take the necessary steps.

Welthungerhilfe is currently providing for around half a million people in Darfur, both refugees and the local populace who are unable to farm their land due to hostilities. Welthungerhilfe has repeatedly suspended its activities due to the security situation. Where possible, Welthungerhilfe is engaging in reconstruction in villages, like building rudimentary schools, to curb the influx into refugee camps.

For further information see www.welthungerhilfe.de