The United States on Friday urged all parties in Sudan to "redouble their efforts" in the year 2010 for pushing peace process forward, saying issues concerning Sudan' s future must be resolved by the Sudanese themselves.
"We call on all parties in Sudan to rise to the challenge with political will and vision. There is much to be done. Dialogue, cooperation,
and political leadership are vital, but time is short, " said Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in a statement for marking the fifth anniversary of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) in Sudan.
The CPA agreement, which ended a 22-year civil war in the country, was signed between the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM) and the
Sudanese government led by the National Congress Party (NCP) in January 2005.
Under the agreement, South Sudan has an option to hold a referendum in 2011, after a six-year interim of the unity government in the country, on whether or not to become an independent nation.
"With one year left until the referendum on self-determination for Southern Sudan, all sides must intensify efforts to implement the remaining
provisions to keep the CPA on track," said Clinton.
"High levels of violence and displacement in South Sudan in 2009, and continued violence against civilians, widespread insecurity, and
humanitarian concerns in Darfur show that much more work is needed to bring the peace and stability the Sudanese people deserve," said the secretary.
The United States called on all parties in Sudan to "redouble their efforts" and to come together to work intensely to address the challenges facing their people, said Clinton, adding "Ultimately, issues concerning Sudan's future must be resolved by the Sudanese themselves."
The United States will work with all interested international partners, including the United Nations, the African Union, to support the initiatives of the people of Sudan to build a peaceful and prosperous future, she added.