UK welcomes government, rebels negotiations in South Sudan

The UK has welcomed the official launch of peace negotiations between South Sudan government and rebel leader in Adis Ababa last night. UK Minister for Africa Mark Simmonds expressed in a statement here his pleasure after formal peace negotiations between representatives of President Salva Kiir and rebel leader Riek Machar in the Ethiopian capital have been officially launched. "This is a constructive step and I urge both sides to remain flexible throughout these discussions," he said, adding that an immediate agreement to a monitored cessation of hostilities must be the priority. Simmonds noted that it was important that detainees were released quickly and with due process, to help ensure a successful dialogue. Moreover, the minister also praised the role of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development and the regional leaders, including Ethiopia in helping to bring the two sides together, promising that the UK, along with international partners, in particular the US and Norway, will continue to fully support this process. Simmonds hoped that these talks will help deliver the peace all of South Sudans people wish for, but He expressed his country's grave concerns regarding the current situation in South Sudan. "Fighting continues with high numbers of reported deaths and thousands of South Sudanese have been displaced from their homes and are in need of humanitarian aid," said Simmonds. The minister noted the importance of giving access so that supplies can reach those in need. Fighting in south Sudan, between supporters of President Salva Kiir and those of his sacked deputy Riek Machar left thousands of people dead and displaced almost 200,000 from their homes