The United Nations and African Union have welcomed the joint declaration of principles made by Sudanese rebels and pro-government representatives on participation in a national political dialogue.

The document signed last week consists of a statement of principles in general terms, which could lead toward rebel participation in a political dialogue with the ruling party. It was signed after consultations between opposition leaders and the National Dialogue Committee.

According to a UN press statement, the UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed “the initiative of holding a comprehensive national dialogue in Sudan to achieve sustainable peace as well as the progress being made by Sudanese stakeholders to prepare for a this process.”

“He welcomes, in particular, the signing… of an agreement between representatives of the G7+7 Preparatory Committee for the National Dialogue and the Paris Declaration Group, comprising the National Umma Party and the armed movements.”

Ban further encouraged the parties to take steps to improve the environment for a national dialogue, including cessation of hostilities, guaranteeing freedom of speech and release of political detainees.

The African Union likewise welcomed the declaration, which was made in Addis Ababa after a week of talks, calling it an “Agreement reached by Sudanese Parties on their participation in the National Dialogue.”

Chairperson of the Commission of the African Union (AU), Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, said the agreement came after “constructive exchanges that the Sudanese stakeholders had on a number of issues that are crucial for the future of Sudan.”

The topics of discussion included the conflicts Darfur, South Kordofan and Blue Nile; arrangement for cessation of hostilities; addressing the humanitarian situation; the protection of rights and freedoms; release of political detainees; and inclusivity in the National Dialogue.

She encouraged the parties to build on the agreement with steps to “create conditions conducive for the successful holding of the National Dialogue.”