AFP: KHARTOUM: Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir on Monday pledged to work with his South Sudanese counterpart to settle the future of the contested Abyei region, where residents were holding an unofficial referendum.

"I will continue with my brother Salva Kiir... to reach a solution for Abyei that can bring satisfaction to the local communities there," Bashir said in a speech opening a new session of parliament.

He did not refer to the voting underway Monday by members of Abyei's Ngok Dinka tribe, which is closely connected with South Sudan and whose members are settled in Abyei.

The Arab Misseriya tribe, who traditionally move back and forth from Sudan grazing their cattle, have rejected the one-sided referendum which is not sanctioned by the South Sudanese government.