5 Jan 2014

Sth Sudan talks begin

9:45 am on 5 January 2014

Direct talks on ending the conflict in South Sudan officially opened on Saturday in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa.

The negotiations are focusing on bringing about a ceasefire and the release of political prisoners.

The BBC reports the talks are expected to get underway in earnest on Sunday. No timeline has been set, but mediators have asked the parties to find quick solutions.

Rebels supporting former deputy president Riek Machar have been fighting against the forces of President Salva Kiir since 15 December.