The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr George Carey, has applauded recent developments in the search for a peaceful resolution of conflict in Sudan. Commenting on the Machakos Protocol signed last week in Kenya by both the Sudanese Government and The Sudan People's Liberation Army, Dr Carey said:

"I have been pleased and encouraged by the recent progress that has been made towards peace in Sudan. Any durable resolution of the conflict will need to deal honestly with such issues as religious freedom for all and self-determination, and I am heartened that this reality has been embraced by those involved in the negotiations.

"I look forward with anticipation and hope to the further negotiations, promised in the near future. I pray that they may bring still closer a final agreement, the prospect of peace and security, and an end to the deep suffering of the Sudanese people, for which all people of goodwill continue to yearn."

All the parties involved have committed themselves to meet next month again in August to continue negotiations.