South Sudan becomes the world's newest nation

Leaders across the globe have been sending their congratulations to South Sudan on the day it became the world's newest nation.



Statements recognising South Sudan's nationhood flowed from the US, UK, Russia and others as tens of thousands watched an independence and flag-raising ceremony in the capital, Juba.



Salva Kiir took the oath as president.



Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir attended and called on the US to end sanctions against his country.



And in response US President Barack Obama said in a statement that he was proud to declare that the United States formally recognises the Republic of South Sudan as a sovereign and independent state effective today.