Lt. Gen. Abdel Fattah El Burhan visited Juba, South Sudan, to discuss critical issues impacting Sudan-South Sudan relations amidst military tensions and oil transport challenges. This third visit follows ongoing conflicts between the SAF and RSF and aims to address significant diplomatic and economic concerns affecting both nations. South Sudan’s heavy reliance on oil revenues and recent political tensions further complicate the discussions.
Lt. Gen. Abdel Fattah El Burhan, the leader of Sudan’s Sovereignty Council and commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces, visited Juba, South Sudan, for discussions on crucial bilateral issues. This visit marks El Burhan’s third official trip to South Sudan amid ongoing conflicts between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). His arrival was greeted by South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir and Sudanese diplomatic representatives.
El Burhan’s delegation included prominent officials such as the Minister of Energy and Oil and the undersecretary of Foreign Affairs. Notably, the timing of the visit coincided with increased military tensions in border regions, particularly affecting oil-rich areas crucial to both nations. South Sudan’s writer, Ateem Simon, noted the talks focused on four significant issues impacting bilateral relations.
Among the pressing topics was the disruption of crude oil transport from South Sudan through Sudan’s pipeline, which has been halted since February due to technical challenges, leading to substantial financial losses for both countries. South Sudan heavily relies on oil revenues for its budget, while Sudan faces diminished transit fee income. Dialogue regarding the resumption of oil exports has continued, but security issues persist, complicating the situation further.
El Burhan’s visit also unfolded against the backdrop of recent remarks by South Sudan Vice President Taban Deng Gai, who criticized Sudan’s governance. His statements draw attention to Abyei, an oil-rich area contested by both nations, highlighting the need for responsible leadership in resolving ongoing conflicts. Despite tension, it is expected that El Burhan will address these comments during his discussions.
Moreover, El Burhan serves as a guarantor of the Revitalized South Sudan Peace Agreement, although disagreements have arisen within the South Sudan Opposition Alliance regarding leadership roles, necessitating consultations with Sudan. The outcomes from this visit may significantly influence the dynamics of peace and bilateral relations between Sudan and South Sudan.
The relationship between Sudan and South Sudan has been fraught with tension since South Sudan’s secession in 2011, primarily due to territorial disputes and the significance of oil resources. This visit by Lt. Gen. El Burhan is pivotal, especially considering the ongoing military conflict within Sudan and its implications for cross-border relations. The economic dependency on oil exports further complicates matters, underscoring the urgent need for diplomatic engagement to resolve these disputes. Recent escalations along the border and political instability within South Sudan have fostered a climate of uncertainty, necessitating discussions not only on military cooperation but on economic ties and governance issues. El Burhan’s role as the de facto guarantor of the peace agreement establishes him as a crucial figure in stabilizing relations between the two nations.
Lt. Gen. Abdel Fattah El Burhan’s visit to South Sudan highlights the ongoing complexities in the relationship between Sudan and South Sudan. His discussions about military tensions, oil transport challenges, and internal governance issues underscore the intertwined nature of security and economic stability in both countries. The outcomes of these negotiations will likely have significant implications for the future of their bilateral relations and the regional stability in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.dabangasudan.org
