Tensions mount as Sudan accused of bombing raids

South Sudan accused Sudan of launching fresh bombing raids on its territory yesterday, casting a shadow over the resumption of talks to avoid a collapse into all-out war between the neighbouring African oil producers.

The reports, which could not be confirmed independently, came hours before the countries sat down to their first direct negotiations since a series of clashes broke out along their disputed border in April.

As officials gathered for the discussions in Ethiopia, Barnaba Marial Benjamin, information minister for South Sudan, told reporters Sudanese war planes had continued bombing raids that started over the weekend.

“Today the Sudan armed forces are still bombing in Warguet area [Northern Bahr el Ghazal],” he said, speaking in the southern capital, Juba.

“Maybe they want to negotiate from a position of strength as they usually do. This is not the first time they have done it.”

South Sudan split away from Sudan in July last year without settling a string of bitter disputes including the position of their shared border, oil transit fees and the ownership of disputed territories.

Diplomats at the African Union-backed negotiations in Addis Ababa were not holding out much hope for a quick, comprehensive settlement. One western diplomat said: “Expectations are very low … At best, they will discuss a roadmap.”