Region | Sudan
Sudanese rivals reach deal on disputed Abyei region
Rival Sudanese leaders have signed a deal to end a dispute over the oil-rich region of Abyei and facilitate the return of thousands of people displaced by conflict.
- Agencies
- Published: 14:28 June 9, 2008
- Image Credit: Reuters
- Civilians flee Abyei after renewed fighting in the area in May.
Khartoum: Rival Sudanese leaders have signed a deal to end a dispute over the oil-rich region of Abyei.
Sudanese President Omar Al Bashir and First Vice-President Salva Kiir signed the agreement on Sunday, the official Suna news agency reported.
The new plan includes setting up an interim administration for the region and the return of people displaced by the conflict.
Troops from the north and south are to deploy in the area within 10 days, the Sudan Tribune newspaper reported.
Al Bashir said: "This problem of Abyei, which was to undermine the unity in Sudan, will thank God, be used for building a unified Sudan."
In May, thousands of residents fled fighting in the territory, which threatened to put Sudan near the brink of another civil war.
Abyei is surrounded by oilfields believed to be worth $500,000 and Kiir on Sunday said the new deal will ensure that resources in the area will be used to benefit the people.
"With this road map we will be able to create a conducive security environment that will allow the return of the people of Abyei area to their homes with dignity and without fear," Kiir said.
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