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The referendum scheduled for 2011 on self-determination of South Sudan, represents a major challenge and a serious threat, not only to the future and unity of the Sudan but also to the other states in the region.

The real concern is that an overwhelming vote in favor of secession by the people of South Sudan would not only create a dangerous precedent for many countries, but that it would also encourage some ethnic and tribal groups in these countries to follow suit and resort to armed struggle against the central authority and seek self-determination and separation, thus creating chaos, violence and loss of human lives. Several regional leaders echo similar concern.

The serious and dangerous implications of such an outcome could destabilize peace and security and contribute to the spread of terrorism and violence linked to ethnic and religious motivations. The OIC, the African Union (AU) and the League of Arab States (LAS) attach utmost importance to respecting the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of each Member State of the three organizations.

I think that the three organizations should take the lead, in a concerted move, and in coordination with the Government of National Unity in the Sudan, to sensitize the people of South Sudan on the importance of maintaining Sudan's territorial integrity and unity, and subsequently warn them of the grave dangers which could result from secession. I also urge regional and international financial as well as developmental
institutions to mobilize substantial aid and assistance for the funding and implementation of development projects and programs aimed at contributing to the progress and development of the economic and social infrastructures.

Such programs and projects would contribute to achieving a comprehensive and sustained development for the benefit of the population in South Sudan. Within its commitment to support Sudan, the OIC had organized an international donors' conference on the development and reconstruction of Darfur, under the co-chairmanship of Egypt and Turkey, whereas the funds pledged would be used to implement developmental programs in vital
sectors including education, health, agriculture and industry. An international effort to develop South Sudan is similarly needed.

I have addressed a letter to H.E. Mr. Jean PING, chairperson of the African Union Commission (AU), and to H.E. Mr. Amr Moussa, Secretary General of the League of Arab States (LAS), on 2nd February 2010 proposing that the three organizations adopt a program of action following a visit to Khartoum and Juba (capital of South Sudan) as soon as possible, and to take concrete actions in order to make the unity of Sudan attractive
for the populations in South Sudan.

The Sudanese leadership is encouraged to join hands with the OIC and the other organizations in this initiative and to engage in a vast and comprehensive program of reconstruction and development of South Sudan by
implementing projects for economic development and social welfare, which will consolidate the sense of belonging to the same Sudanese nation for all Sudanese people. Also of importance is for prominent African and Islamic leaders, in particular H.E. President Abdullah Wade, in his capacity as current Chairman of the Islamic Summit Conference, and the President of Chad and leaders of other countries neighboring Sudan, to become involved in the unity process by providing their unflinching support to the cause of a united
Sudan.Preserving the unity and territorial integrity of Sudan is important to the maintenance of peace and security not only in the region but also in the world. A divided Sudan is not in the interest of any Sudanese people.