GENEVA, March 2. /TASS/. Moscow supports international steps to stabilize the situation in South Sudan, including the African Union’s mediation efforts, Russia’s delegation to the 55th session to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva said.

"We welcome the achievements of South Sudan’s leadership in forming the governments of states and the chambers of a transitional parliament, draft a constitution and create a national human rights council," Ilya Barmin, the head of the Russian delegation, said.

He pointed out that the transitional period had been extended to February 2025 based on an updated peace agreement on South Sudan, and a roadmap had been adopted. "We support international steps to stabilize the situation in the country and strengthen peace and security, including the African Union’s mediation efforts," Barmin stressed.

Russia believes that the human rights situation in South Sudan will improve after the domestic conflict is finally resolved, he noted. Moscow "strongly rejects attempts to use international platforms, including the Human Rights Council, to put political pressure" on South Sudan, Barmin added.

The 55th session of the UN Human RIghts Council is taking place in Geneva from February 26 to April 5. Although Russia is not a member of the council, it is taking an active part in its meetings.