The U.S Secretary of State John Kerry is urging the warring parties in South Sudan to speed up the negotiations and form the transitional government of national unity.
President Salva Kiir and former vice president Dr Riek Machar agreed in a IGAD-mediated dialogue to set up an interim government aimed at reuniting the people of South Sudan.
During his meeting with President Salva Kiir in Washington yesterday, Secretary Kerry said peace must come to South Sudan to help about a million vulnerable people who are at risk of famine.
Mr. Kerry said peace cannot be achieved if the leaders in South Sudan do not put their personal interests behind them.
“So what we’re looking for is the fulfillment of the agreement, which means moving to a transition government that heals the wounds and brings people together,” he said.
“And we have said before and I reiterate now that the president is the duly elected, constitutional president of South Sudan, and this is a rebel group.
“Nevertheless, it needs to understand the importance of adhering to international agreements and the importance of bringing this to a negotiated conclusion and path forward.
“So, I hope today we can find a way to get back to these talks in a serious way.”
President Salva Kiir assured Secretary Kerry that his government is committed to achieving lasting peace in order to end the seven-month conflict in South Sudan.
“If peace was to be brought to South Sudan today or tomorrow, I will be happy because the people who are dying on both sides are my people,” said President Kiir.
President Salva Kiir is amongst the 49 heads of State from Africa who are attending the US – Africa Leaders’ Summit in Washington DC.