Obama: South Sudan deal a 'critical first step'

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama says the cease-fire deal in South Sudan is a critical first step toward lasting peace.

Obama welcomed the agreement struck Thursday between South Sudan’s government and rebels. In a statement, he called on South Sudan’s leaders to implement it fully and start a political dialogue to resolve the conflict’s causes. He said it was critical that political detainees currently held by South Sudan’s government fully participate.