Sudanese-US officials reportedly to meet before next round of peace talks

By Sudanese radio

KHARTOUM, Nov. 26, 2003 — The Sudanese charge d’affaires in Washington, Khydhir Harun, has predicted that meetings between Sudanese and American officials will be held before the next round of [Sudanese] peace talks.

In a statement to SUNA [Sudan News Agency], Harun said that the Sudanese-American meetings are part of encouragement by the Americans towards the peace talks, which seek to bring closer the visions of the government and those of the [rebel] Sudan People’s Liberation Movement.

The Sudanese charge d’affaires pointed out that there is enormous optimism from the US administration for an immediate realization of peace [in the country].

He gave assurances that a peace agreement will lead to a normalization of relations with the US and lifting of [American] economic sanctions [on Sudan].

BBC Monitoring Middle East