Statement by the spokesperson of EU High Representative Catherine Ashton on the deadly attack against a UNMISS convoy in Jonglei, South Sudan

BRUSSELS, Kingdom of Belgium, April 10, 2013/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- The spokesperson of Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and

Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement today:

"The High Representative strongly condemns the attack on an U MISS convoy near Gumuruk in Jonglei state, South Sudan, on 9th April which resulted in the death of five UNMISS peacekeepers, two civilian staff and at least five additional civilians who were escorted by UNMISS.

The High Representative is saddened by this tragic loss of life and expresses her condolences to the families of the victims. She calls on the Government of South Sudan to conduct a full investigation and bring the perpetrators to justice.

The High Representative deplores the on-going conflict in Jonglei and urges all armed groups to respect the Government of South Sudan's appeal to lay down their weapons and to settle their differences by peaceful means. She also reiterates her strong support for UNMISS."