In a speech at the opening of parliament, Mr Bashir also said the government was committed to a "national dialogue" with all groups.

BBC: Sudan's Bashir orders political prisoner release

Pakistan denies the allegation, and Mr. Bashir said the country does not know if Mullah Omar and other Taliban leaders are in Pakistan.

WSJ: Pakistan Rejects U.S. Criticism

For his part, Mr Kiir said that he and Mr Bashir had agreed to implement all co-operation agreements.

BBC: President Bashir orders South Sudan border to be opened

The African Union and Arab League have said they will ask the UN to defer the warrant for a year, saying that arresting Mr Bashir could derail attempts to bring stability to Sudan.

BBC: UN pleads with Sudan over aid ban