U.S. President Barack Obama on Sunday congratulated Sudan for peacefully carrying out their historic, week-long referendum regarding the future of southern Sudan."The sight of so many Sudanese casting their votes in a peaceful and orderly fashion was an inspiration to the world and a tribute to the determination of the people and leaders of south Sudan to forge a better future," Obama stated.
The U.S. President went on to say that the past week has given the world "renewed faith in the prospect of a peaceful, prosperous future for all of the Sudanese people," describing Sudan's future as one that "the American people long to see."
The referendum now moves into another phase, and while official results will not be available for some time, independent observers have been extremely encouraged by the credibility of the process to date.
"We urge all parties to continue to urge calm and show restraint as the parties work to complete implementation of the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement. The United States will continue to assist the parties amid the tough challenges and historic opportunities that lie ahead," Obama added.
Obama also commended the Southern Sudan Referendum Commission, the Southern Sudan Referendum Board, the domestic and international observers, the United Nations Mission in Sudan, and all the voters "who turned out in high numbers and high spirits to take their turn at the ballot box."
The week-long referendum, in which about 3.9 million people registered to vote, will determine whether the south remains part of Sudan or chooses independence after a long civil war. In a survey cited by Euronews, about 97 percent said they would vote in favor for their own state.
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