Ismael: Sharing authority with the rebels will not be difficult

The Sudanese foreign minister Mustafa Othman Ismael said yesterday in Cairo that peace in Sudan has become almost at hand, noting that reaching an agreement in the authority sharing talks with the rebels will not be difficult.

Ismael told reporters in Cairo that "the opportunity for peace is closer than any previous times." He added "there is an internal consensus to give peace priority. Peace has become a popular need." Previously, Ismael had stated that peace can be achieved this year.

The rebels and the Sudanese government will resume negotiations on March 1st in order to draw precise details to share authority and resources. Two issues described by observers as the most complicated.

Ismael added, referring to the talks which may cover distribution of ministerial posts on figures from the rebels (Sudan People Liberation Army) "we do not think hat the issue of distributing the authority will constitute a threat to peace."