From L-R Presidents Omar Al-Bashir of Sudan and Salvar Kiir of South Sudan
CEOAFRICA.com gathered from Khartoum, the capital of Sudan that a summit organized to end conflicts and honour agreement over cross-border oil export by Sudan and South Sudan has ended.
The summit, which was held in the capital of Sudan, saw both Presidents Salva Kiir of South Sudan and the host, Omar al-Bashir discussing serious measures that would enhance better relationships between the countries.
Sources said both countries had agreed in March to resume oil exports from landlocked South Sudan through the north, its only route to market. Juba, the capital of South Sudan, had stopped oil flows for 16 months when a conflict over disputed territory and pipeline fees flared last year.
But Sudan has threatened to again stop oil shipments by Friday unless Juba cuts ties with rebels operating across the almost 2,000-km (1,300-mile)-long border. South Sudan denies supporting the insurgents.
Speaking before the meeting commenced, President Bashir said,“We are committed to implement the agreements signed by the two countries. We want to leave the problems of the past behind us and open a new page for the benefit of the two people.”
From his part, President Salva Kiir said he wanted a new chapter in bilateral ties and open the joint border for trade.
“You closed the border. We didn't do that but we're ready to reopen it within 24 hours,” Kiir said, adding that Juba did not support any Sudanese insurgents.
South Sudan relies heavily on oil exports to fund its budget and any shutdown could have serious economic and political implications.