The US and Sudan

The US announced on Monday evening that it intends to strengthen its support for the regional peace efforts in Sudan following the meeting held between the US President George Bush and his special envoy to this country former senator John Danforth.

U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Walter Kansteiner briefed reporters May 20 on U.S. policy towards Sudan. He said that Washington in particular intends to strengthen its support for IGAD (Inter-Governmental Authority Development composed of six African countries) which includes countries in the region seeking to establish peace in Sudan.

He explained before journalists that the coming phase for the American administration will concentrate on means of achieving peace in Sudan through supporting of the efforts made by the international group.

The US said it plans to provide support and financial aid to support this process.

IGAD includes Sudan, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Kenya, Uganda and Somalia has assumed since 1993 sponsorship of negotiations between Khartoum and southern Sudan rebels on the ground of declaration of principles stating the right of southern Sudan to self- determination.