Sudan and South Sudan have emphasized the necessity of resolving obstacles to the resumption of South Sudan’s oil exports through Sudan, as top officials from both sides convened to discuss production and transportation issues following a previous export suspension due to pipeline blockages.
On October 20th, Sudan and South Sudan reiterated the importance of addressing the challenges hindering the resumption of oil exports from South Sudan through Sudanese territory. This declaration emerged following a meeting in Port Sudan between General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, the Chairman of Sudan’s Transitional Sovereign Council and General Commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces, and Mr. Tut Gatluak, the Presidential Advisor on National Security for South Sudan. Mr. Gatluak indicated that technical teams from both nations are prepared to enhance oil production and ensure the smooth transit of oil through the Bashayer port in Sudan. He emphasized South Sudan’s commitment to fulfill prior agreements with the Sudanese government, and expressed optimism regarding an upcoming meeting between the energy and petroleum ministries of both countries to further facilitate operations. Previously, in March, the Sudanese government had halted the oil exports of South Sudan due to complications affecting transportation infrastructure, specifically citing a blockage in an underground pipeline in northern White Nile State, which is currently under the control of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This bilateral meeting followed another meeting that took place in June. Oil remains critical for South Sudan’s economy as it constitutes the primary source of national revenue, with the country relying significantly on Sudan to facilitate exports to global markets. It is crucial to note that Sudan has been embroiled in a severe conflict involving the SAF and RSF since mid-April 2023, which has claimed over 24,850 lives according to a report from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project as of October 14th.
The relationship between Sudan and South Sudan, particularly concerning oil exports, has been complex and fraught with challenges. Following South Sudan’s independence in 2011, the two nations have maintained significant economic ties, with South Sudan relying on Sudan’s pipelines to transport its oil to international markets. The cessation of oil exports due to transportation issues has serious implications for South Sudan’s economy, which depends almost entirely on oil revenue. Additionally, recent political instability and conflict within Sudan have complicated efforts to maintain the efficiency of these vital oil transportation routes.
In summary, the dialogue between Sudan and South Sudan regarding the revival of oil exports highlights the critical economic interdependence between the two nations. Both countries are working collaboratively to resolve the logistical challenges imposed by transportation faults, with the anticipation of upcoming ministerial meetings designed to expedite solutions. The continuation of these oil exports is vital, not only for the economic stability of South Sudan but also for Sudan amidst its ongoing conflict.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
