PSC/PR/COMM(DCIX) Page 2 6. Expresses gratitude to the Chair of the IGAD, Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn of Ethiopia, and leaders of the IGAD, especially President Uhuru Kenyatta of the Republic Kenya, President Yoweri Museveni of the Republic of Uganda, and President Omar al-Bashir of the Republic of Sudan, for their continued engagement and support to the efforts of JMEC and their commitment to the promotion of peace, security and stability in South Sudan. In this regard, Council underscores the fact that a stable and safe region can only be attained through unity of purpose in supporting South Sudan throughout this challenging period; 7. Expresses appreciation to the UNMISS for its role in the maintenance of peace and security in South Sudan. Council also commends the continued protection given by UNMISS and aid agencies to the affected populations of South Sudan and urges them to continue providing such assistance; 8. Reaffirms its grave concern over the continued violations of the ceasefire agreement as reported by the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring Mechanism (CTSAMM) to JMEC and encourages the Parties to desist from any actions that might escalate the security situation. Council calls on the TGoNU to issue explicit orders to the local civilian and military authorities to allow for unimpeded access and freedom of movement for the CTSAMM. Council strongly calls on the Parties to recommit to the ideal of ensuring that there is a permanent ceasefire throughout the country; 9. Expresses grave concern over reports of increased sexual and gender based violence, in particular against children, and the conscription of child soldiers, and strongly condemns all such acts; 10. Renews its appeal for the international community to lend support to the implementation of the Agreement in a coordinated manner, in accordance with the mechanisms established under the Agreement, particularly to the JMEC. Council welcomes the efforts of the JMEC Partners Forum and urges it to continue mobilising support for the peace process. Council also appeals to the international partners to support the peace process in South Sudan especially the establishment of the Hybrid Court and other transitional justice institutions; 11. Strongly appeals to the AU Member States, to support the stabilization and recovery processes in South Sudan, and calls on the AU Commission to convene a pledging conference for South Sudan through the African Solidarity Initiative (ASI), before the end of the year; 12. Calls upon the the TGoNU to create a conducive environment for humanitarian access, and to take full responsibility for ensuring the protection of civilians and the safety and security of humanitarian workers; 13. Calls upon the TGoNU and all relevant stakeholders to facilitate the voluntary return, resettlement and rehabilitation of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and refugees so that they can contribute to their country’s recovery process;