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No new US sanctions on Sudan: Bush
Washington, Apr 23: US President George W Bush said he will not slap sanctions on Sudan because of its good faith efforts to forge a peace deal with rebels, but called on both sides to `replace promises` with actions.
Washington, Apr 23: US President George W Bush said he will not slap sanctions on Sudan because of its good faith efforts to forge a peace deal with rebels, but called on both sides to "replace promises" with actions.
"There is still much work remaining," he said in a statement yesterday. "It is now time to move the peace process to a new level where the actions of both parties replace promises as the measure of their commitment to peace."
In making the determination, part of a six-month review of the peace process sent to lawmakers, bush also found that the Sudan People's Liberation Army/movement was also committed to reaching an agreement. "I hereby determine and certify that the Government of Sudan and the Sudan People's Liberation movement are negotiating in good faith and that negotiations should continue," the US leader said.
Bush said both sides had made "significant progress" towards peace, but added some demands, notably warning that military actions, "primarily but not exclusively by the government" must end.
He called on both sides to refrain from hostile or provocative action, wrap up negotiations on outstanding issues, and sign a comprehensive peace agreement. "We stand ready with other members of the international community to support the implementation of a comprehensive agreement when it is finalised this June," he said.
Under the provisions of the Sudan Peace Act, which Bush signed in October, the President has the authority to impose sanctions against Khartoum and significantly boost US aid to the rebels should the government be found not negotiating in good faith.
Bureau Report
In making the determination, part of a six-month review of the peace process sent to lawmakers, bush also found that the Sudan People's Liberation Army/movement was also committed to reaching an agreement. "I hereby determine and certify that the Government of Sudan and the Sudan People's Liberation movement are negotiating in good faith and that negotiations should continue," the US leader said.
Bush said both sides had made "significant progress" towards peace, but added some demands, notably warning that military actions, "primarily but not exclusively by the government" must end.
He called on both sides to refrain from hostile or provocative action, wrap up negotiations on outstanding issues, and sign a comprehensive peace agreement. "We stand ready with other members of the international community to support the implementation of a comprehensive agreement when it is finalised this June," he said.
Under the provisions of the Sudan Peace Act, which Bush signed in October, the President has the authority to impose sanctions against Khartoum and significantly boost US aid to the rebels should the government be found not negotiating in good faith.
Bureau Report