Sudan government, rebels meet for peace talks in Juba

Sudan's ruling council and rebel leaders have started peace talks to end the country's multiple conflicts, a key condition for the country's removal from the United States' sponsors of terrorism list.

The council, a transitional government, has made peace-making with rebels fighting Khartoum one of its main priorities.

Being designated a state sponsor of terrorism cuts Sudan off from desperately needed debt relief and financing from lenders such as the International Monetary Fund and World Bank. Removal from the list potentially opens the door for foreign investment.

Arriving in Juba on Monday, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, a member of the sovereign council and head of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, expressed optimism.

"We shall start negotiations with open hearts and we are serious about bringing peace to Sudan," Dagalo, also known as Hemedti, said.

The council took over the government in August when military and civilian parties and protest groups signed a three-year power-sharing deal after months of strife following the removal of president Omar al-Bashir in April.

South Sudan brought together members of the council and rebel leaders from several areas for the latest talks.

In August, Sudanese officials and rebels set a two-month period for talks starting on October 14.

SS