Sudanese President Gen. Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan is visiting South Sudan for crucial bilateral discussions with President Salva Kiir, focusing on enhancing cooperation and resuming oil exports. The visit occurs during significant turmoil due to the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has severely affected South Sudan’s economic stability. Both leaders are dedicated to finding solutions that address mutual interests amid these challenges.
On December 4, 2024, General Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan, President of Sudan’s Transitional Sovereignty Council, commenced an official visit to Juba, the capital of South Sudan. This visit marks an important dialogue with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir, focusing on enhancing bilateral relations and addressing shared concerns. Accompanied by key Sudanese officials, including the Minister of Energy and Oil and the Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs, Al-Burhan’s agenda emphasizes the resumption of oil exports from South Sudan through Sudan, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Sudan which began in April 2023.
President Kiir has acknowledged the economic challenges facing South Sudan, particularly due to the disruptions caused by the Sudanese conflict, stating, “We are facing a dual crisis [after] operations were interrupted by the conflict in Sudan. I am fully engaged with our brothers in Sudan to ensure unfettered access for engineers and a steady flow of materials to the oil fields.”
The visit underscores the intertwined fates of the two nations, as South Sudan relies heavily on Sudan for oil transport to international markets, while the Sudanese conflict continues to displace millions and exacerbate humanitarian crises.
The relationship between Sudan and South Sudan has historically been complex, with close economic ties especially related to oil resources. South Sudan, which gained independence from Sudan in 2011, relies on Sudanese infrastructure for oil exportation due to its landlocked status. The recent conflict in Sudan, instigated by internal power struggles, has severe implications for both countries, particularly threatening economic stability and basic humanitarian needs. This official visit by General Al-Burhan aims to address current challenges and seek collaborative solutions to mutual interests, especially in the oil sector.
In conclusion, General Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan’s official visit to South Sudan represents a critical step towards reinforcing bilateral relations and facilitating cooperation amid ongoing challenges. As both nations face significant hurdles, particularly regarding oil exports and the humanitarian crisis rooted in the Sudanese conflict, their discussions may pave the way for solutions that benefit both countries. The commitment highlighted by President Kiir reflects the urgency for sustained dialogue and partnership in these trying times.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
