Chuol Jany
President Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan today welcomed Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, the Chairman of Sudan’s Sovereign Council, to Juba for pivotal bilateral talks aimed at strengthening the relationship between the two neighboring countries.
The two leaders are expected to discuss the relationship between Sudan and South Sudan, with both countries grappling with internal conflicts and shared regional challenges.
The visit is seen as an effort to bolster diplomatic ties and foster regional cooperation amidst ongoing instability in both nations.
Sudan’s Foreign Minister, Ramadan Abdalla Mohammed Goc, underscored the significance of the visit, stating that the discussions would center on a range of pressing issues that affect the peace and security of the region.
Key topics expected to dominate the talks include the ongoing conflict in Sudan, border security, economic cooperation, and the situation of refugees and displaced persons.
Focus on Regional Peace and Stability
According to Minister Goc, the discussions are anticipated to pave the way for enhanced collaboration on regional peace and stability.
Both leaders are expected to reaffirm their commitment to constructive dialogue, which has long been regarded as essential for resolving conflicts that have threatened peace in both Sudan and South Sudan.
“President Kiir and Chairman Al-Burhan will engage in high-level discussions aimed at addressing the challenges that continue to affect not only our two countries but the wider region. We hope that through cooperation, we can advance shared goals for peace and development,” Goc said.
Cooperation on Border Security and Trade
One of the focal points of the talks is expected to be the issue of border security. Both Sudan and South Sudan share a long and often contentious border, with intermittent skirmishes and the movement of armed groups presenting ongoing challenges.
Enhanced cooperation on border management, including mechanisms to prevent cross-border conflict and illegal trade, is a key agenda item for the meeting.
Economic cooperation is also likely to be discussed, particularly considering the oil-dependent economies of both countries. South Sudan relies on Sudan’s infrastructure to export its oil, and disruptions in this arrangement could have far-reaching consequences for both nations’ economies. The leaders are expected to explore ways to safeguard this critical partnership and expand economic ties in areas such as agriculture, infrastructure, and trade.
Refugees and Humanitarian Concerns
The humanitarian crisis stemming from ongoing conflicts in Sudan has led to significant population displacement, with thousands of Sudanese refugees seeking shelter in South Sudan.
The bilateral talks are expected to address the pressing needs of these displaced populations and explore ways both governments can coordinate humanitarian assistance to alleviate the crisis.
Commitment to Peace in Sudan
Chairman Al-Burhan’s visit to Juba comes at a time when Sudan is experiencing political unrest, with ongoing fighting between the military and rival factions.
South Sudan, under the leadership of President Kiir, has played a mediating role in previous negotiations between various Sudanese factions.
The discussions between the two leaders are expected to reaffirm South Sudan’s commitment to supporting Sudan’s peace efforts and stability.
The outcome of these talks is being watched closely by regional actors, who hope that renewed cooperation between Sudan and South Sudan will lead to broader stability in the region and reduce tensions that have plagued both countries since South Sudan’s independence in 2011.
