Related Topic: Sudan's Darfur Conflict 

The Sudanese government and southern rebels have signed a final comprehensive peace accord in Nairobi, ending the 21-year civil war in southern Sudan, the longest-running in Africa.

This peace pact covers all eight previous peace deals, including earlier agreed protocols on how to share power and natural wealth, what to do with armed forces during a six-year interim period, how to administer three disputed areas, and the latest on permanent ceasefire and modalities of implementing peace deals.

UN Secretary General Kofi Annan has sent congratulation to the two sides, saying the signing of the peace accord lays a foundation to realize peace across the country. He hopes the move will give an impetus to Sudan to make more effort to settle the Darfur crisis.

The European Commission says the signing of the accord is conducive to beefing up regional stability and warding off tense situations in other regions.

Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Lu Guozeng, who witnessed the signing ceremony, says the signing of the peace treaty is not only in line with the basic interests of the Sudanese people, but also promotes regional peace, stability and development.

(Photo Source: Reuters)

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