Brussels, 08/07/2011 (Agence Europe) - Hopes and fears surround the declaration of independence of South Sudan, the formal ceremony marking which is scheduled to take place in Juba, the capital of the soon-to-be state, on Saturday 9 July. Catherine Ashton, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, is travelling to Juba to take part in this historic event when a new country is born, following the overwhelming vote for independence in the referendum of 15 January. Its future, to be built from virtually nothing, is, however, uncertain given the worrying upsurge in violence in south Kordofan, on the border between the North and South of Sudan (see EUROPE 10412). By taking part in the independence ceremony, Ashton intends to send a message of hope and of support on behalf of the EU which is determined to help South Sudan - and, indeed, its neighbour, Sudan - in the quest for peace, stability, development and success. After being devastated by 50 years of civil war, the fates of South Sudan and Sudan are intimately linked.
“The European Union stands together with the people of South Sudan on this historic day, and we will be a reliable partner for the future. We will continue to support a peaceful transition in South Sudan, and hope that the country's leaders will take full advantage of the unique opportunity they have before them. The EU is committed to long-term peace and stability in the two Sudans and urges them to live together peacefully as two viable states after 9 July”, the high representative said on 8 July. In May of this year, €200 million was allocated by the EU to support the national development plan in South Sudan which will have to face immense challenges in terms of development and stability. South Sudan will join the ACP (Africa, Caribbean, Pacific) Group of countries which are linked to the EU through the Cotonou Agreement. Political dialogue between the EU and the new state will be strengthened with the establishment of an EU delegation in Juba as soon as conditions allow. (A.N./transl.rt)