Russia Welcomes Deal Between Sudan's Army, Opposition

The Russian Foreign Ministry welcomed on Monday signing of the constitutional declaration between Sudan's army and the opposition.

In a statement, published on its official website, the ministry praised the deal as "an important step to the stability" in the country.

"We call on the involved Sudanese sides to continue to adhere to the agreed road map for the formation of bodies of state power for the transitional period. At the same time, we believe that all the problems and contradictions, that arise, should be resolved exclusively by peaceful means in the course of a constructive inter-Sudanese dialogue with the participation of all the responsible political forces of the country," the ministry said.

In an official ceremony on Saturday, Sudan's ruling Transitional Military Council (TMC) and opposition Forces for Freedom and Change (FFC) alliance signed a power-sharing deal, paving the way for elections and civilian rule.

According to the deal, a sovereign council -- consisting of six civilians and five military personnel -- will run the country until the elections.

A prime minister will be appointed with the approval of the council on Aug. 20, to be sworn in before the council and head of the Supreme Court on Aug. 21, the agreement said.

Sudan has remained in turmoil since April 11, when the military establishment announced long-serving President Omar Bashir's removal after months of popular protests against his 30-year rule. -