South Sudan is a close friend and ally of the U.S. in a strategically important region of the world.
South Sudan needs to build upon the foundation of democracy created by independence in 2011.
For the last 40 days we have been alarmed by the on-going violence in South Sudan. UN's estimates of deaths thus far stand at 15,000. Many of them are women and children.
South Sudanese look to the United States as a partner in peace and development. We urge the President to engage where possible in the current crisis to help the people of this new nation with diplomatic and financial support. With the help of the United States, South Sudan can restore peace, develop accountability, ensure a fair general election in 2015 and become a responsible member of the world community.



