- This is an historical break through in the peace negotiations for Sudan, says the Norwegian Minister for International Development, Ms. Hilde F. Johnson, in a comment to the agreement which was signed by the government of Sudan and the rebel movement SPLM Saturday 20.07.

- I am very please that the parties now have reached an agreement on two of the most important issues under discussion: Southern Sudan’s right of self-determination and that the Islamic law, Sharia, will not apply to the whole country, she says.

- Norway will continue to render its full support to President Moi’s and IGADs negotiation in the conflict. The parties should also now listen to President Moi’s appeal for a cessation of hostilities and full humanitarian access to the civilian population, the minister says.

The Kenyan President, Daniel Arap Moi, is negotiating in the conflict on the behalf of the regional organisation of IGAD. The negotiations have taken place in Machakos in eastern Kenya. The next round of talks will resume in the middle of August. Norway has, together with USA, UK and Italy, been an observer to the negotiations. Norway has supported the IGAD negotiation secretariat with 1.6 mill. Norwegian Kroner (200.000 USD). The parties have agreed on the principles for the continued talks, which i.a. will focus on sharing of resources, autonomy for the Southern Sudan, power sharing and military issues for the transitional period of 6 years leading up to the referendum on continued unity for the country or cessation for the south.