“While outsiders such as the AU and the UN can help, what is crucial is for the leaders of Sudan and South Sudan to talk directly and build mutual trust; the task cannot be left to anybody else”

Martti Ahtisaari argues that Sudan and South Sudan need to take immediate action towards building a collaborative relationship, and that the real dividends of the peace agreement for South Sudan will depend on investing in the long-term; by focusing on its infrastructure, constitution and economy – but most importantly its people.