South Sudan and Sudan Leaders Discuss Cooperative Relations on Oil and Security

President Salva Kiir of South Sudan and Sudan’s TSC Chairman Gen. Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan met in Juba to discuss enhancing cooperation in oil, trade, and border security. The leaders expressed optimism about revitalizing bilateral relations amid ongoing regional challenges, including conflicts in Sudan.

On December 4, 2024, President Salva Kiir of South Sudan and General Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan, Chairman of Sudan’s Transitional Sovereignty Council, convened in Juba to discuss bilateral cooperation concerning oil, trade, and border security. Their discussions were aimed at strengthening the close ties between the two nations, with representatives from both sides expressing optimism regarding the outcomes of the meeting. This collaboration underscores the strategic importance of maintaining cordial relations amidst regional challenges.

During the press conference following the meeting, Majak Filmon Majok, Undersecretary of South Sudan’s Foreign Affairs, conveyed that Al-Burhan’s visit was part of the growing partnership between Sudan and South Sudan. He emphasized that the agenda included a multitude of shared interests that necessitated ongoing dialogue for the benefit of both nations’ populations. Additionally, discussions included updates on the ongoing conflict in Sudan, highlighting the urgent need for coherent cooperative strategies.

Sudanese Ambassador to Juba, Lt. Gen. Issam-Eddin Karar, characterized the discussions as centered on collaborative challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for both countries. The meeting also involved key discussions on military progress from Al-Burhan, who is also the commander-in-chief of the Sudanese Armed Forces, indicating a focus on security enhancements for border control and stability. In attendance were other important figures, including the Sudanese Minister of Energy and Oil, Dr. Mohi-Eddin El-Naeem.

The dialogue between South Sudan and Sudan is set against a backdrop of historical complexities, marked by conflict and collaboration over the shared border and resources such as oil. The relationship between the two countries has seen fluctuations, often influenced by internal dynamics within Sudan and South Sudan. As both nations seek to stabilize their economies and security environments, dialogues such as the recent meeting between President Kiir and General Al-Burhan are pivotal in shaping bilateral relations, particularly concerning trade and resource management.

The meeting between President Kiir and General Al-Burhan signifies an essential step towards strengthening the cooperative ties between South Sudan and Sudan. With mutual discussions on oil, border security, and trade, both leaders have acknowledged the importance of collaboration in addressing their shared challenges, particularly in light of ongoing conflicts. This strategic alignment reflects their commitment to fostering stability and improving relations beneficially for their citizens.

Original Source: sudantribune.com