The governor of Sudan's Sennar state Ahmed Abbas declared that a recent cooperation agreement with South Sudan will “dramatically reduce spending on security along the borders” of the two countries.

It will also revive trade between Sudan and South Sudan, besides boosting an influx of seasonal agricultural workers from the south.

Abbas disclosed his state spent large amounts of money to secure agriculture schemes after Sudan and South Sudan relations strained. “But after the signing of the Cooperation Agreement we will not have to spend that sum of money”, Abbas said.

He also called on concerned authorities along the border to eliminate smuggling in the area, which he called “disturbing”, adding that opening borders will help legalising the trade between the two sides. Governor Abbas stressed that good relations are the mutual interest of Sudan and South Sudan.

Meanwhile, the commissioner of Jebelein locality, Ahmed El Taiyb, confirmed his commitment to implement the recent agreement signed by Presidents Omal Al Bashir and Salva Kiir.

He pointed out, however, that the borders are still closed as leaders of the two countries “have not yet removed all barriers hindering movement of people and commodities along the borders”.

For his part, the official spokesman of the opposition Popular Congress Party in South Kordofan, Adam Mohamed Al Amin, suggested that Khartoum “takes advantage of this peaceful atmosphere with the south” and re-enter negotiations with the rebel group Sudan People's Liberation Army-North (SPLA-N).

Al Amin said the security situation in the state is “stable and calm” and commended the Peace Initiative Program supported by State governor Adam Al Faki, calling it a “bold decision”.

File photo: Nomads in Sennar state