US President Barack Obama welcomed Thursday an agreement between Sudan and South Sudan that “breaks new ground” on peace efforts and resolving economic and security issues. “The Sudanese and South Sudanese people who have suffered greatly through decades of conflict deserve the benefits of a lasting peace – a peace that can only be achieved through continued dialogue and negotiation, sustained implementation of the agreements reached to date, and steadfast work to resolve remaining issues,” he said in a statement. Obama said the leaders of the countries had taken “take another important step on the path away from conflict toward a future in which their citizens can live in dignity, security, and prosperity.” The US said it would work with the countries on resolving outstanding issues, and hopes the agreement would create progress to resolving conflicts in Southern Kordofan, Blue Nile and Darfur.