Ashton verwelkomt overeenkomst tussen Soedan en Zuid-Soedan (en)

The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the Commission, issued the following statement today:

" I welcome news of the agreement on oil revenue between Sudan and South Sudan. This will contribute to the economic viability of both countries and the welfare of their people.

The A URoadmap, adopted by the A U Peace and Security Council on 24 April, was based on the concept of two viable states. Agreement on oil revenue is at the heart of this concept.

I commend both Governments for the spirit of compromise that made this agreement possible and hope that it will now be extended to other outstanding issues, including borders, Abyei and security arrangements. The African Union High Level Implementation Panel, led by President Mbeki, is also to be congratulatedfor its efforts in bringing about this agreement.

I am further encouraged by reports that the Government of Sudan has agreed to modalities for delivering humanitarian assistance to all civilian populations affected by the conflict in Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile states. I urge the immediate implementation of this agreement so that humanitarian assistance can reach those in need without delay. This also needs to be accompanied by a cessation of hostilities and political negotiations between the Government of Sudan and the Sudan People's Liberation Movement/North.

Although Sudan and South Sudan were unable to resolve all outstanding issues by the 2 August deadline set by UN Security Council Resolution 2046, they have made considerable progress in narrowing their positions. I urge the Parties to build on this progress so that a comprehensive agreement can be reached at the forthcoming Presidential Summit. "