UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon says the decision of President Salva Kiir to sign the peace agreement is a critical and necessary step in ending the conflict.

Mr Ban expressed hope that the deal will bring an end to violence and allows the displaced people to return to their homes.
The UN Secretary-General said 20 months of conflict had “devastated” South Sudan and subjected its people to “unspeakable suffering.”
The President Salva Kiir signed the agreement with reservations yesterday in Juba.

In a statement Mr Ban says the United Nations stands ready to support the implementation.

He says both sides should start with a permanent cease-fire and freedom of movement to UN and other humanitarian partners operating in the country.

The Secretary-General says he intends to convene a meeting on the margins of the UN General Assembly next month to ensure sustained support for peace and security in the country.