President Salva Kiir has reiterated his commitment to the implementation of the peace agreement signed in August.

He told a high-level meeting on South Sudan in New York that he is determined to stop the war and lead the building of a democratic state in South Sudan.

World leaders held the meeting at the sidelines of the UN General assembly on Tuesday.

The President, who did not travel to New York, spoke through videoconferencing.

“When I decided to join the struggle three decades ago, I did not expect to liberate my people in order to take them back to war among themselves,” Mr Kiir said.

“Therefore, I’m determined to stop this senseless war and make sure that, together with my brothers in the armed opposition, we will build a democratic, united, and harmonious country by implementing the agreement.”

The meeting was attended by the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, among others.

Mr Ki-moon spoke directly to President Salva Kiir, urging him to maintain his commitment to end the war.

He said the president has both political and historical responsibility to restore peace in the country.

“I don’t understand why this country has fallen into such a chaotic fighting. I think now it is your responsibility, and your brother you said, Riek Machar, and leaders of South Sudan to make your country put on a peaceful path,” Ki-moon told Kiir.

“I think that is your historical and political responsibility as first president of South Sudan and I really count on your strong leadership ambition for your country. We are here all to help you. I hope you will not betray and disappoint us.”

On his part, Dr Riek Machar, who attended the meeting as a signatory to the agreement, pledged to work to consolidate peace in the country.

President Salva Kiir, Dr Riek Machar, and Pagan Amum Okech signed the peace agreement last month.

However, clashes have been reported in different parts of the country after both sides declared ceasefire in line with the deal.