January 9, 2010 marks the five year anniversary of the peace agreement between North and South Sudan. Norway was one of the facilitators of the peace agreement, and is still an important supporter of the peace process.
Important milestones ahead
Sudan now faces critical choices that will determine the future of the peace process. In April 2010 democratic elections will be held and in January 2011 the referendum on South Sudan’s future as an independent state. Sudan is the country in Africa that receives the largest contribution of Norwegian development assistance.
Solheim and Fiskaa will visit both North and South Sudan. They will hold political talks in Khartoum and Juba. The purpose is to emphasize the parties' responsibility to follow up the peace agreement, confirm Norway's active role and involvement as well as discuss the reconstruction of South Sudan.