Chad

The foreign minister of Chad has called on wealthy nations to help poor countries reduce poverty and advance social and economic progress.

In comments at the United Nations World Summit, llam-Mi Ahmad also appealed for fair trade laws and total debt relief for African nations. He pledged ongoing cooperation with neighboring African countries that face the threat of terrorism.

He also made an impassioned plea for international assistance in resolving the conflict in Sudan's western Darfur region. Over the last two years, at least 200,000 Sudanese refugees from Darfur have fled across the border into Chad.

Mr. Ahmad said Chad has helped efforts to mediate the crisis and has taken on the refugees with great cost to its environment, food supply and the constant threat of ongoing violence among the various combatants.