Nieuwe EUAVSEC-missie in Zuid Soedan (en)

The Council today gave the green light for a new Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) mission to strengthen the aviation security at Juba international airport: EUAVSEC South Sudan. This civilian mission responds to an invitation by South Sudan and is part of the EU's comprehensive approach, a strategy to assist South Sudan in becoming a viable, stable and prosperous state

EU High Representative Catherine Ashton said: "The EU is committed to supporting peace, security and development in South Sudan. EUA VSEC South Sudan will work to raise the security at Juba airport to internationally accepted standards. This is important for the economic development of South Sudan andfor the efforts to prevent the airport from becoming a target for terrorism."

South Sudan is landlocked and heavily dependent on air traffic. Improving airport security will enable the increased flow of people and goods, as well as boost trade. In particular, EUAVSEC South Sudan will train and mentor security services, provide advice and assistance on aviation security, as well as support the coordination of security activities. The mission will not have any executive tasks

EUAVSEC will last for 19 months and its headquarters will be in Juba, South Sudan. Up to 64 personnel will be deployed, with activities starting in September 2012. A budget of EUR 12.5 million has been allocated

Read the factsheet on EUAVSEC South Sudan and see the mission website.

See also more on EU-South Sudan relations on the website of the EU External Action Service