Sudanese officials seek world support as critical independence referendum nears

Sudan seeks global support as vote nears

UNITED NATIONS — Sudanese officials are asking world leaders including President Barack Obama to provide the international support needed to maintain peace as they near a critical independence referendum on south Sudan that could split Africa’s largest country in two.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, Obama and other leaders on Friday urged a timely and peaceful vote to ensure any possible transition is smooth and does not ignite a new civil war.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi is warning a high-level meeting organized by Ban that the Jan. 9 referendum will not be held in time unless Sudan officials move more quickly.