WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), chairman of the Foreign Relations Subcommittee on African Affairs, issued the following statement welcoming independence for the Republic of South Sudan.
“This is truly a momentous day for the people of the newly independent Republic of South Sudan — a moment borne of decades of civil war, great suffering, and ultimately, a peaceful and democratic referendum. I am delighted to join the American people in congratulating South Sudan on this historic milestone and welcoming this new country to the community of sovereign nations. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Foreign Relations Committee to nurture a close and productive relationship between the United States and Africa's 54th nation.
“As we celebrate, we also are mindful of the challenges that remain in Abyei, Southern Kordofan, Darfur and elsewhere. But today we celebrate and look toward building a future characterized by peace and development for all the people of Sudan and South Sudan.”