December 1, 2009 (PRETORIA) — South Africa’s President Jacob Zuma pledged today to support Sudanese government to overcome challenges encountered in its efforts to achieve peace in the country.

South Africa President Jacob Zuma (AP)

Zuma delivered his remarks during a credentials ceremony where he received letters of credence from Ambassadors Ali Yousif Ahmed Sharif of Sudan, Rodrigo Guillermo of Republic of Panama, Francisco Javier Marambio of Chile, Goran Vujicic of Serbia and Jacques Lapougne of France.

"We are hoping that the national election and the referendum next year will be a success," Zuma said in Pretoria after accepting credentials from Sudan’s ambassador Ali Yousif Ahmed.

South Africa plans to hold a meeting for the two partners of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement signed in 2005 to end a two decade war in the country.

Zuma also said South Africa would help ensure unity on the continent.

Newly appointed Sudanese Ambassador Ali Yousif praised in his speech South African efforts towards achieving peace, stability and unity in Sudan.

"We strongly support the leadership role of South Africa on regional conflict resolution and peace building."

He said Sudan had been following with admiration the huge strides South Africa had made since 1994 in democracy, social justice and development.

He also extended an invitation from President Omer Al-Bashir to his South African counterpart to visit Sudan.

President Omer Hassan Al-Bashir did not attend the inauguration ceremony for South African President Jacob Zuma last May as he is facing an arrest warrant issued last March by judges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) over his alleged role in Darfur atrocities.

(ST)