The first results from a weeklong independence referendum in southern Sudan indicated an overwhelming vote for secession.
According to the AP, a small sample showed a 96 percent vote for secession.
The independence vote ended Saturday. Ahead of the referendum it was believed that outcome will see the split of the country in two. Thus, by July Southern Sudan should be the world's newest nation.
U.S. President Barack Obama congratulated Sudan on the peaceful vote, in a statement issued Sunday. "The sight of so many Sudanese casting their votes in a peaceful and orderly fashion was an inspiration to the world and a tribute to the determination of the people and leaders of south Sudan to forge a better future," the statement said.
