Statement of U.S. Senator Russ Feingold On the President Naming a Special Envoy to Sudan September 19, 2006 “I am pleased that the President is naming a presidential special envoy for Sudan. This is a crucial step toward resolving the devastating conflict in Darfur, and establishing a lasting peace in Sudan. To be effective, this special envoy must have the power to negotiate and work with the Sudanese, as well as with countries in the region and the international community, to make way for a UN peacekeeping force. As world leaders continue to meet at the United Nations, it is imperative that the U.S. work closely with the international community to bring to an end this ongoing genocide. We don’t have time for more bureaucracy. Mr. Natsios must get to work immediately by securing the extension of the African Union force currently in Darfur, convincing Khartoum to accept a UN peacekeeping force, and beginning to develop the resources and strategy needed to bring an end to this violence.”

# # #