The European Union Thursday warmly welcomed the agreements signed by Sudan and South Sudan in Addis Ababa earlier today. \"This represents a historic step for both countries. I congratulate both Governments on the leadership and spirit of compromise they have shown in reaching these agreements,\" said EU High Representative Catherine Ashton in a statement. She called on both sides to implement the agreements without delay and stressed that \"It is particularly important that oil starts flowing and cross-border trade resumes as this will benefit both economies and improve the lives of ordinary people\". The agreements on security arrangements will also contribute to stabilising the border area, added the EU statement.