The US Administration said it has received pledges from Sudan to cut its ties with North Korea, stressing that isolating the Pyongyang regime was a key element for sustaining peace and stability around the world.
US Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan said in a lecture at the University of the Holy Quran and Islamic Sciences in Omdurman on Friday that Sudan has confirmed its commitment to sever its relations with North Korea, adding that his government welcomes the Sudanese decision.
Sullivan arrived in the Sudanese capital Khartoum on Thursday for a two-day official visit, during which he discussed with Sudanese officials issues of terrorism, human rights and religious freedoms.
In Washington, State Department Spokeswoman Heather Nauert said on Friday that Sudan had promised to take steps against North Korea because of the serious threat represented by its nuclear program.
Stressing that her government was grateful for Sudan’s firm position, Nauert said that isolating Pyongyang was necessary for sustaining peace and stability around the world.
On a different note, Washington asked Khartoum to stop attacks against conflict zones, announce a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire and achieve peace and stability in the country.
In his lecture, Sullivan called on the Sudanese government to stop attacks in Darfur, South Kordofan and Blue Nile, and said that the US Administration demanded continued dialogue between the Sudanese government and armed opposition movements, as well as engaging in a comprehensive political process.
He also urged armed opposition in South Kordofan and Blue Nile to accept the American proposal and open corridors to deliver humanitarian aid to those affected by the war, stressing that “peace and stability will bring the country back to the right path.”
“We support a secure and prosperous Sudan,” he stated.
