A negotiator for Sudan’s opposition alliance said on Saturday after talks with the ruling military council that he expected agreement over the formation of a new body to lead the country’s transition.

“Today we have taken positive steps and we expect to reach an agreement satisfactory to all parties,” said Ayman Nimir, a negotiator for the Declaration of Freedom and Change Forces.

“We expect to receive a response from the military council regarding the formation of a sovereign council within hours.”