Japan Urges Strong Commitment to South Sudan Peace and Development

Japanese Ambassador Odagiri Toshio stressed the need for commitment to the 2018 Peace Agreement in South Sudan during the Kokora Bridge inauguration. The bridge project, funded by Japan’s ODA, aims to alleviate traffic issues in Juba while fostering economic growth. Odagiri highlighted Japan’s support for technical knowledge transfer to local engineers and urged the South Sudanese government to prioritize peace and improve living conditions for its citizens.

In a recent address in Juba, the Japanese Ambassador to South Sudan, Odagiri Toshio, emphasized the need for a robust commitment to the 2018 Peace Agreement’s implementation. He called for sincere dialogue to achieve the Tumaini Consensus and highlighted Japan’s ongoing support for South Sudan’s government. Odagiri made these comments during the unveiling of the Kokora Bridge, a project funded by Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) aimed at alleviating traffic congestion and fostering economic growth in Juba City.

The Kokora Bridge represents a commitment not only to infrastructure development but also to knowledge transfer. Ambassador Odagiri praised the South Sudanese engineers who collaborated with skilled Japanese professionals, reinforcing the importance of technical skills for long-term maintenance. He reiterated that Japan has been a key partner in various projects in South Sudan, such as the Freedom Bridge and Juba Water Supply, underscoring a longstanding commitment to the country’s development needs.

Odagiri concluded by stating that peace and stability are essential to economic growth, urging South Sudan’s government to prioritize the peace agreement and improve the citizens’ living conditions. He reasserted Japan’s dedication to supporting South Sudan’s self-reliant development for a prosperous future. Japan’s collaboration with South Sudan extends beyond construction, focusing also on nurturing local capacities for infrastructure maintenance. The Ambassador expressed hope that the lasting benefits of these initiatives would enhance the quality of life for the people of Juba.

The context of this article revolves around the role of Japan in supporting South Sudan’s development since the country gained independence. The Japanese government’s initiatives, including infrastructure projects facilitated through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), aim to address critical challenges facing South Sudan, particularly in transportation and essential services. The Kokora Bridge project exemplifies how international aid can incorporate both physical development and skill-building to ensure sustainable progress in war-torn regions. Ambassador Odagiri’s appeal for a strong commitment to peace also reflects the broader challenge of maintaining stability in South Sudan amidst ongoing political complexities.

In conclusion, Ambassador Odagiri’s address highlights Japan’s continued dedication to supporting South Sudan’s development through infrastructure projects and skill transfer. The unveiling of the Kokora Bridge symbolizes not only physical progress but also a deeper commitment to strengthening local capacities. This initiative underscores the importance of implementing peace agreements as a foundation for sustainable growth, and Japan’s role remains pivotal in South Sudan’s journey towards lasting prosperity and stability.

Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org