However, EC President Jose Manuel Barroso said any newly independent state would have to reapply for European membership "according to the rules".

BBC: Karel Schwarzenberg

This presents a major challenge to the government of the newly independent state, which also faces cross-border tensions with its northern neighbour Sudan.

BBC: Jonglei clashes: South Sudan declares a disaster

British colonial rule was almost gone: some newly independent countries kept the queen as head of state while others ditched her altogether in favor of a president.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS