U.S. Intends To Recognize Southern Sudan as Sovereign, Independent State
![Southern Sudanese celebrate formal announcements of referendum results in Juba, Feb. 7, 2011. [AP]](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20121019021809im_/http://blogs.state.gov/images/Dipnote/behind_the_scenes/2011_0207_sudan_results_m.jpg)
President Barack Obama announced today U.S. intent to recognize Southern Sudan. In a statement, the President said:
"On behalf of the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Southern Sudan for a successful and inspiring referendum in which an overwhelmingly majority of voters chose independence. I am therefore pleased to announce the intention of the United States to formally recognize Southern Sudan as a sovereign, independent state in July 2011.
"After decades of conflict, the images of millions of southern Sudanese voters deciding their own future was an inspiration to the world and another step forward in Africa's long journey toward justice and democracy. Now, all parties have a responsibility to ensure that this historic moment of promise becomes a moment of lasting progress. The Comprehensive Peace Agreement must be fully implemented and outstanding disputes must be resolved peacefully. At the same time, there must be an end to attacks on civilians in Darfur and a definitive end to that conflict.
"As I pledged in September when addressing Sudanese leaders, the United States will continue to support the aspirations of all Sudanese -- north and south, east and west. We will work with the governments of Sudan and Southern Sudan to ensure a smooth and peaceful transition to independence. For those who meet all of their obligations, there is a path to greater prosperity and normal relations with the United States, including examining Sudan(tm)s designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism. And while the road ahead will be difficult, those who seek a future of dignity and peace can be assured that they will have a steady partner and friend in the United States."
The President's statement was released here on www.whitehouse.gov.
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Tags: AF (32) | Democracy and Human Rights (207) | Sudan (65) |
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Khalid M. in the United Kingdom writes:
Wise words from an eloquent and articulate leader .The USA and allies brokered the CPA and are garantors of implementation ;it is quite appropriate to keep up interest and support.It is very refreshing to note that the word genocide did not precede the mention of Darfur.
The stage is set for continued US sopport for both South and North Sudan.Lifting the sanctions(which seems to be under consideration)is in the interest of US companies too.A win-win situation will be created whereby US engagement is not a one way involvement. Aid in all forms is needed and useful;but that should be complemented with investment opportunities that make US business a stakeholder in the political sopport offered to Sudan. Partnership is preferable to handouts.
Training to enable the South to complete the difficult transition to civilian norms and discipline in the army and police is a priority.The US and allies have already undertaken training which should be continued.
The US stood "on the right side of history" in Sudan's historic developments.I hope this policy will be maintained and developed.
Posted on Fri Feb 11, 2011