United States Praises Signing of Southern Sudan Constitution
State Department affirms support for African Union-mediated talks on Darfur
In a statement issued December 7, the United States congratulated Salva Kiir and the people of Southern Sudan on the signing of the Southern Sudan Constitution December 5.
State Department deputy spokesman Adam Ereli said the signing "is a step forward in Sudan's political process and the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement,” which he said "remains the key to Sudan's future."
The agreement, signed on January 9, provides the framework for power sharing, wealth sharing and regional security applicable to every citizen of Sudan, he said, adding that marked progress toward peace and reconciliation has been shown since that signing. (See related article.)
However, the United States "remains concerned by the continued violence in Darfur," the statement said, and is providing strong support for the African Union-mediated talks in Abuja, Nigeria, in order to achieve a settlement expeditiously.
For additional information, see Darfur Humanitarian Emergency.
Following is the text of the statement:
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman
December 7, 2005
STATEMENT BY ADAM ERELI, DEPUTY SPOKESMAN
SIGNING OF SOUTHERN SUDAN CONSTITUTION
The United States congratulates Salva Kiir and the people of Southern Sudan on the signing of the Southern Sudan constitution on December 5, 2005. This is a step forward in Sudan's political process and the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement. The Comprehensive Peace Agreement remains the key to Sudan's future. It provides the framework and basis for power sharing, wealth sharing, and regional security, all of which are applicable to every area and every citizen of Sudan.
There has been marked progress towards peace and reconciliation in Sudan since the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement on January 9, 2005, including the establishment of the Government of National Unity, the Interim National Constitution and the Government of Southern Sudan. In addition, the Assessment and Evaluation Commission has been established, which will oversee implementation of the peace accords. The National Democratic Alliance, an umbrella organization of northern opposition parties also has joined the Government of National Unity.
The United States continues to seek a peaceful and democratic Sudan. We remain concerned by the continued violence in Darfur and have stressed to Sudanese leaders that this violence must end. We will continue to press for a political solution in Darfur. We believe that such a solution will hold all parties accountable for their actions, ensure that people can return home in a safe and secure environment, and build a lasting and just peace for all Sudanese. We are providing strong support for the African Union-mediated talks in Abuja, Nigeria, in order to achieve a settlement expeditiously.
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