Khartoum hosts talks between S. Sudan gov't, opposition

KHARTOUM, June 25 (KUNA) -- Direct talks were held on Monday between South Sudan's government led by Salva Kiir Mayardit and opposition leader Riek Machar, amid regional and diplomatic presence.
Sudanese President Omar Al-Bashir patronized a direct session of talks between Kiir and Mechar, in the presence of Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni.
Al-Bashir vowed to do his best during dialogue and negotiations between the two sides so as to help them reach a settlement to end the civil war in that country.
Meanwhile, Museveni stressed that he arrived in Khartoum to back endeavors of settlement in South Sudan, hoping that the sessions of talks would lead to positive outcomes.
He noted that the meeting brought together Al-Bashir, Kiir and Mechar resulted in some points which will enable South Sudanese people to enjoy peace.
Kiir, in the meantime, said that the negotiations in Khartoum are an attempt to develop and promote understandings reached one year ago.
He pointed out that there are some differences which could be resolved in a short period of time.
The negotiations are scheduled to continue in the Sudanese capital for two weeks, then the two sides will head to Nairobi. (end) mm.hm