Brussels, 31/01/2011 (Agence Europe) - In Brussels on Monday, EU foreign ministers hailed the “timely, peaceful and credible conduct” of the independence referendum in Southern Sudan as a “crucial step in implementing the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA)” of 2005. These congratulations were delivered on the same day as provisional results announced a massive majority in favour of the independence of the South (99% of votes cast).
In its unanimous conclusions, the Council reiterates the EU's commitment to respect the wishes of the people of Southern Sudan when the final results of the referendum are announced (Ed: on either 7 or 14 February) and to continue its aid to both North and South.
The Council also urges all parties to resolve the outstanding issues, including the status of Abyei, citizenship arrangements and the holding of Popular Consultations in Blue Nile and Southern Kordofan. It says it is especially concerned about the delay in resolving the issue of Abyei. Similarly, it remains deeply concerned about the increasing violence in Darfur and calls on all parties genuinely to engage in the Doha peace process leading to a “comprehensive and inclusive peace settlement” on Darfur. The Council notes, too, that the government of Sudan must cooperate with the International Criminal Court. (A.N./transl.rt)