Sudan calls on US to press rebels to join peace process

KHARTOUM, Dec 4 (KUNA) -- The Sudanese government on Monday asked the United States to pressure the local rebels to accept the African Union roadmap for peace in Sudan.
Addressing the opening session of the Sudanese-American Economic Forum in Khartoum, Deputy Prime Minister Mubarak Al-Fadhel said Sudan looks forward to a positive role from Washington in the peace process in Darfur, Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile region.
He clarified that the government hopes the US would press rebel movements to accept the roadmap presented by the African mediator and accepted by the government.
The Sudanese official seized the opportunity to urged the attending US investors to lobby in Washington for removing Sudan's name from the list of terrorism sponsoring countries and write out its debts.
He stated that the Sudanese government seeks to bolster cooperation with the US in various domains, especially agricultural technology, mining and food security.
For her part, President and CEO of the US Corporate Council on Africa (CCA) Florizelle Liser stated that the investment climate in Sudan is attractive and encouraging for foreign investment.
She pointed out that Sudan has great investment opportunities and untapped potential.
"We seek to work and coordinate with the government of Sudan to exploit these huge resources," she said.
An American business delegation comprising more than 12 companies operating in various fields such as agriculture, energy, metal, aviation, aviation and technology started Monday an official visit to Sudan. (end) mmm.ibi