On December 4, 2024, President Salva Kiir of South Sudan and Gen. Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan of Sudan met to enhance cooperation on oil, border security, and trade. Their discussions aimed at revitalizing bilateral relations amid ongoing conflicts in Sudan, with a shared goal of stability and mutual interests.
On December 4, 2024, a strategic meeting took place in Juba, South Sudan, involving President Salva Kiir and Gen. Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan, the head of Sudan’s Transitional Sovereignty Council. The discussions centered around collaboration on oil production, enhancing trade, and improving border security between the two nations. This meeting is seen as a step towards rejuvenating the historically intertwined relations of South Sudan and Sudan, particularly in light of ongoing regional challenges.
According to Majak Filmon Majok, Undersecretary of South Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the visit results from strong bilateral ties, focusing on common interests that affect the populace in both nations. He expressed hope that the engagements during Al-Burhan’s visit would fortify cooperative relations. In alignment with this sentiment, Sudan’s Ambassador to Juba, Lt. Gen. Issam-Eddin Karar, emphasized that critical issues pertinent to both nations would be addressed, contributing positively to their diplomatic interactions.
Additionally, Ambassador Hussein Al-Amin from Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted that consultations between the leaders were ongoing, aimed at exploring their shared concerns. He apprised President Kiir on the volatile situation in Sudan, where internal conflict between the Sudan Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces has escalated since 2023. Al-Burhan, who is also the commander-in-chief of the Sudanese military, underscored the advancements of his armed forces during the discussions, while key officials participated in the meeting, including Dr. Mohi-Eddin El-Naeem, Minister of Energy and Oil, and General Ahmed Ibrahim Mufaddal, Director General of the General Intelligence Service.
The relationship between South Sudan and Sudan has historically been complex, influenced by a shared history marked by conflict and cooperation. Following South Sudan’s independence in 2011, the two countries have navigated various challenges, particularly regarding oil resources which are crucial for their economies. Cooperation on security matters is essential, given the porous borders and mutual concerns over armed groups. The recent escalation of violence in Sudan adds urgency to these discussions as both nations seek to stabilize their relations and address regional security.
The recent discussions between President Kiir and Gen. Al-Burhan point towards a significant effort to improve relations between South Sudan and Sudan, focusing on critical areas such as oil, trade, and border security. With the backdrop of ongoing conflict in Sudan, the outcomes of this meeting could play a vital role in shaping cross-border cooperation and ensuring stability in the region.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
