Latest Statements
New York, 7 February 2011 - Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General on the referendum in Southern Sudan
The Secretary-General today welcomed the announcement of the final results of the referendum on the right of self determination of the people of Southern Sudan. The results, which showed that 98.83% of all voters chose independence, are reflective of the will of the people of Southern Sudan. The peaceful and credible conduct of the referendum is a great achievement for all Sudanese. The Secretary-General commends the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) partners, the Government of Sudan led by President Omar Hassan Al Bashir, and the Government of Southern Sudan led by President Salva Kiir Mayardit, for keeping their commitment to maintain peace and stability throughout this crucial period. The Secretary-General urges the CPA partners, the Government of Sudan and the Government of Southern Sudan to build on the momentum generated by the successful conduct of the referendum to reach an agreement on post-referendum arrangements, including Abyei, expeditiously and in the same spirit of cooperation.
The Secretary-General calls upon the international community to assist all Sudanese towards greater stability and development, reiterates the commitment of the United Nations towards this end and assures continued UN assistance and support to the CPA partners.