On the basis of these examples and this short introduction to the progress we...

On the basis of these examples and this short introduction to the progress we have made in enhancing the role of women in the Sudan, let me now move on to the main focus of our discussion here today. We reject and stand firm against all practices of injustice and violence against women. In 2007, we adopted a national strategy that was developed in consultation with all relevant official and civic bodies, including governmental entities and representatives of civil society, including the civil society representative who sits on my right side here today. We appreciate her role in this regard.

The national strategy adopted in the Sudan encompassed six areas of focus for measures to enhance and upgrade the status women, including peacebuilding and the preservation of rights, participation in decision-making, economic development, education, health, the environment, and dispute settlement. The strategy has been applied at all federal and state levels. The Government of the Sudan has established numerous specialized centres at all levels to coordinate the efforts of women in the fields of peace and development and to provide opportunities for consultation on promoting gender equity and the principles of equality.