Sudan hails role played by U.S., Britain, Norway in peace process

KHARTOUM, Oct 06, 2003 (dpa) — Sudanese President Omer Hassan El Beshir said Monday he is content with efforts by countries headed by the United States to end 20 years of civil war in the country.

In a speech at the opening ceremony of the Sudanese National Assembly on Monday, El Beshir said pledges by the governments of Britain, Norway and European Union members to realize peace in Sudan deserved thanks and appreciation.

He also expressed special gratitude to the rebel leader John Garang for his “willingness and readiness” to end war, adding, “We also hail the Sudan People’s Liberation Army’s (SPLA) keenness and readiness to make this round of peace talks a success”, El Beshir said.

Talks on the distribution of wealth and power-sharing between South and North Sudan and unresolved security arrangements were reported to begin Monday in the Rift Valley town of Naivasha.

El Beshir described peace as an international humanitarian value which has to be preserved and protected and expressed hope that the prevailing peace climate in Sudan would foster relations with neighbouring countries and regional and international organizations.

The president also described Kenya’s role in the peace process as positive and necessary. El Beshir said: “We have walked very long distances in peace processes”,adding, “There remains a very little walk to peace.”

The president promised to maintain the rule of law in domestic affairs and the participation of all walks of life in decision-making to achieve a united Sudan.