Sudan talks to be hosted by South Africa

South Africa is to host Sudan peace talks in an attempt to end 14 years of hostilities in south Sudan, President Nelson Mandella announced yesterday.

Mandela said Sudan rebel leader John Garang and President Omar Bashir were expected to attend the talks. The South African president added that Ugandan President Youeri Mouseveni--often accused by Khartoum of aiding rebel factions--would also be present.

Mandela also said, "I have been in touch with three relevant leaders and it is likely that I will very soon be hosting Garang, Bashir and Museveni," Al Khartoum newspaper said.