The Council had a short discussion on Sudan and adopted the following conclusions:

The Council welcomes the timely, peaceful and credible conduct of the Southern Sudan Referendum as a crucial step in implementing the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA). It congratulates the people of Southern Sudan on their determination in turning out to vote in such large numbers which significantly surpassed the 60% threshold. It commends the ongoing work of the EU election observation mission to monitor the referendum process.

The Council welcomes the announcement of the preliminary results of the Referendum on South Sudan. These show an overwhelming vote in favour of secession . Pending the announcement of the final results, the Council reiterates the EU's commitment to respect the wishes of the people of Southern Sudan and welcomes the commitment of the Government of Sudan to do so. It urges both parties to the CPA to continue to ensure the safety and security of all peoples in Sudan. The Council stresses the EU's continued engagement with both North and South, regardless of the outcome of the Referendum.

The Council urges all parties to quickly resolve all outstanding CPA and post-Referendum issues, including the status of Abyei , citizenship arrangements and the holding of Popular Consultations in Blue Nile and Southern Kordofan. It welcomes the launching of Popular Consultations in Blue Nile. The EU continues to support the efforts of the AU High-Level Implementation Panel on Sudan to facilitate negotiations between the parties to the CPA and stands ready to provide any further assistance that is required.

Moreover, the Council remains deeply concerned about the increasing violence in Darfur which has resulted in 43 000 newly displaced persons. It urges all parties to cease hostilities and ensure full and unhindered access for UNAMID and humanitarian workers. The Council stresses the need for genuine engagement by all parties, including the armed movements, in the Doha peace process leading to a comprehensive and inclusive peace settlement on Darfur.