Tensions arise in Sudan over Abyei region

May 21, 2011

Abyei (Sudan) – MAP – Tensions between the south and north of Sudan over Abyei region just 48 days before northern Sudanese officially announcing independent state.

Some reports said at least six soldiersa were killed in clashes between the southern and northern army.

United Nations spokeswoman Hua Jiang says artillery was heard in Abyei on Friday but that the U.N. could not verify more details because of insecurity in the area.

The U.N. Security Council arrives in the northern Sudanese capital of Khartoum Saturday evening for a four-day visit. Southern Sudan will become independent on July 9, as a result of a referendum process held on last January.