World

Development key to Sudan's lasting peace

By Zheng Anguang (China Daily)
Updated: 2011-01-20 07:56

Independence or not, that is the question. Earlier this month, southern Sudan, which has suffered greatly from civil war and hatred, staged a historic referendum on self-determination over a seven-day voting period. The referendum implements a major pillar of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) signed in 2005, and represents the realization of the aspirations of the people of southern Sudan to determine their political future.

The root cause of Sudan's tragedy lies in colonialism. By the old trick of divide and conquer, imperialists in the 19th century created an artificial economic and social development gap between the north and the south of the country, which has resulted in bitter hatred, internal conflict and political turmoil.

The second civil war alone, beginning in 1983, killed more than 2 million people and made twice that number homeless. Today, Sudan is still one of the most poverty-stricken countries in the world.

After so many years of bloody war, peace is the first and foremost desire of the people. And the referendum has offered a precious opportunity for that to come true.

The dedication and tireless efforts of more than 10,000 international observers, of which 1,500 are from China, as well as the sincere support of President Omar Hassan Ahmed al-Bashir of the Republic of Sudan, ensured there was a high turnout during the peaceful and orderly voting period.

According to the Southern Sudan Referendum Commission and the reports of observers, the 60 percent turnout threshold required was reached several days before the end of the polling period. Whatever the result is, and early reports suggest an overwhelming majority in favor of secession, the election has already symbolized the values of the people: peace, justice and transparent politics.

However, the result of the referendum is only the first step in a much longer journey for the people of this war-ravaged country; only economic development can ensure lasting peace and prosperity.

History tells us that poverty is always accompanied by violence and armed conflicts; the giant gap between the northern and southern regions has been a significant factor in the hatred and war that has caused so much suffering. The many economic and social problems require urgent solutions.

Especially in southern Sudan, one of the world's most underdeveloped regions, with its deteriorating economy and feeble infrastructure. This region is in dire need of economic progress to support the lives of its people.

Having achieved peace and stability, the people of Sudan now face another urgent mission - development. The international community must shoulder its responsibility by sending assistance for those in dire need of it.

As part of these efforts China has been providing unconditional funds to build schools, hospitals and roads. Currently more than 100 Chinese companies with more than 10,000 staff members are working in the region, creating jobs for the local residents and supporting development initiatives.

Only a reviving economy can provide the people of Sudan with long-lasting peace and hope for the future.

The author is an associate professor from School of International Studies of Nanjing University.