The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, has welcomed a recent four month cease-fire in Sudan's contested South Kordofan and Blue Nile regions. 

“This truce, if respected by both sides, will not only ease the suffering of the populations in the conflict areas but will also create a conducive environment for advancing the peace process in Sudan” the African Union said in a statement.

The opposition SPLM-N agreed to the cease fire, which began on Saturday. A roadmap proposed by the African Union attempts to bring all sides together.

“The signing of the Roadmap by all concerned will allow the parties to resume the negotiations, as soon as possible, and reach agreements on issues that are still outstanding and stalling the achievement of peace and stability in Sudan” the African Union said.