After the South Sudan delegation was seated among other member states in the great General Assembly Hall, Assembly President Joseph Deiss of Switzerland hailed the event as an historic and joyous moment for Africa, as well as for the community of nations.

"Today we are firmly entrenching South Sudan in the community of nations in the same way and with the same rights responsibilities as other Member States," he said.

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said, "At this moment, in this place, the world gathers to say in one voice, 'Welcome South Sudan, welcome to the community of nations.'"

While he echoed praise for South Sudan's determination, Ban sounded pragmatic, calling Thursday's events "an important milestone."

"But the journey continues," he said. "Yes, the task ahead is great. But so too is the country's potential.

"With its abundant natural resources, arable land, the waters of the Nile, and, of course, proud and hard-working people.

"We pledge to help South Sudan shape its future, as we help the region consolidate the gains," the secretary-general said. "Together, we salute the leaders of both North and South Sudan. They showed courage and commitment in bringing about a successful referendum that expressed the democratic will of the people."