Clear benchmarks on Sudan

The State Department has not publicly disclosed the precise benchmarks it is applying to assess progress in Sudan. The outcome of the first quarterly review of the U.S. Sudan policy by the National Security Council Deputies Committee was undisclosed. In Sudan, tensions are high with the April national elections and January 2011 referendum on independence for southern Sudan rapidly approaching. I strongly encourage the State Department to bring transparency to the process by which the United States will strictly adhere to unambiguous benchmarks and ensure that the appropriate pressures and incentives are applied according.