The governments of United Kingdom, United States of America and Norway commonly known as Troika called upon the SPLM and NCP to take all necessary steps to ensure a campaigning environment for the referendum free from intimidation and obstruction.
In a joint statement on the south Sudan referendum, the Troika urged both parties and governments to make clear that the rights and safety of southerners living in the north and northerners living in the south are fully protected throughout the referendum process and beyond.The Troika congratulated the Southern Sudan Referendum Commission for the ongoing registration process and urged the parties to ensure the Commission is properly supported.
They urged the peace partners to respect the hard work and integrity of the Commission as it carries out its historic tasks.
The Troika also recognized the role of President Thabo Mbeki in the ongoing political talks on the CPA and post-CPA issues and the progress that has been made to date.
The statement reported that the governments of United Kingdom, United States of America and Norway remained concerned by the lack of agreement on Abyei.