“South Sudanese have paid dearly in millions for their independence. That is enough. The fighting now is pointless. And please ask; why, why, why? It is pointless. I don’t think that those who are dying now are dying for the right course” said the Ethiopian Foreign Affairs Minister, Tedros Adhanhom.

The Ethiopian government says South Sudanese leaders now have the opportunity through the IGAD lead forum to discuss issues that will steer the country to a prosperous future.

Political leaders, religious leaders, civil society representatives and traditional leaders are meeting in Addis Ababa Ethiopia to discuss issues of governance, security reform, national reconciliation and the constitution making process.

The forum started yesterday under the auspices of IGAD.

The 2 days discussion is being chaired by Kenyan Retired General, Lazaro Sumbeiywo.

Adhanhom who was the guest speaker called on the participants to encourage dialogue amongst various communities in South Sudan.

Dr. Tedros said the current conflict in South Sudan will not resolve the grievances of leaders or the civil population.

He said the fighting must stop immediately.

“And I hope the symposium where many of the stakeholders are participating will help in bring peace to the people of South Sudan who deserve peace and development. Let us prove to the world that we can succeed in constructive endeavors that we can cooperate under fire and face the future, not with dread, but with confidence and conviction that we can overcome. Peace to South Sudan, oye to South Sudan”, he said.

Dr. Tedros also called on the leaders to tolerate one another and dialogue.

“Far reaching national reconciliation and revitalized nation building are essential to move south Sudan out of danger and on the path to recovery. There is no other way out of this. Since the various communities in South Sudan are destined to live together, thereleaders must find their own way to do that too”, he said.

Over 150 representatives from various groups in South Sudan are attending the forum in Addis Ababa.

The participants are sharing views and experience among themselves and with experts on how to restore peace, justice and good governance in South Sudan.