Bush speaks with Sudan leaders

Washington, DC, Nov. 16 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush pushed for peace in Sudan Tuesday during telephone conversations with leaders of combatant sides, the White House said.

Spokesman Scott McClellan said Bush told Sudanese President Omar el-Bashir to continue working on a north-south agreement to end 21-years of civil war and allow more African Union peacekeepers into the country.

McClellan said Bush also spoke with John Garang, leader of the southern Sudan People's Liberation Army, which opposes the Khartoum government.

"The president urged that both sides now bring the discussions to a close and reach and agreement for the people of Sudan," he said.