Brussels (ANTARA News/AFP) - European Union foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton on Monday applauded southern Sudan for its historic independence referendum and pledged to seek a long-term partnership with the new state.

"This is a historic moment for Sudan," Ashton said in a statement, hailing the "peaceful and credible" conduct of the vote.

"The EU fully respects the outcome of the referendum as a true reflection of the democratically expressed wishes of the people of Southern Sudan," said the 27-nation bloc`s chief diplomat.

"The EU looks forward to further developing a close and long-term partnership with Southern Sudan which is set to become a new state once the CPA (Comprehensive Peace Agreement) expires in July 2011." (*)

Editor: Kunto Wibisono
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