General Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan of Sudan visited Juba to meet with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir. Key discussions focused on bilateral relations, particularly the resumption of oil exports through Sudan. The backdrop of ongoing conflict in Sudan adds urgency to these discussions amid significant humanitarian and economic challenges faced by both nations.
On December 4, 2024, General Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan, the President of Sudan’s Transitional Sovereignty Council, arrived in the South Sudanese capital of Juba for an official visit. His agenda includes discussions with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations, enhancing cooperation, and addressing shared concerns. Accompanying Al-Burhan are prominent Sudanese officials, including the Minister of Energy and Oil and the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
A significant point of discussion between the two leaders is the potential resumption of South Sudan’s oil exports through Sudan, especially in light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan. President Kiir has indicated that despite economic challenges faced by South Sudan, efforts are being made to facilitate the necessary infrastructure and access for oil production. The landlocked nature of South Sudan makes reliance on Sudan for oil transportation critical.
The conflict in Sudan, which erupted on April 15, 2023, between Al-Burhan and the leader of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces has resulted in catastrophic humanitarian outcomes, leading to a severe displacement crisis as reported by the United Nations. Thus, the talks signify not only a focus on bilateral economic cooperation but also a response to regional instability impacting both nations.
The context of General Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan’s visit lies in the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023. The tensions between military factions have created an urgent humanitarian crisis, leading to mass displacements and instability. South Sudan, reliant on Sudanese routes for its oil exports due to its landlocked status, faces economic difficulties exacerbated by the conflict in Sudan. The bilateral discussions aim to stabilize relations and address mutual interests amid these challenges.
The official visit of Sudan’s General Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan to South Sudan underscores the significance of bilateral cooperation in the face of regional challenges. The discussions on oil exports highlight the intertwined fates of the two nations, especially as South Sudan navigates economic hardships while relying on Sudan for transportation routes. The ongoing conflict in Sudan adds urgency to these talks as both leaders seek solutions to mutual concerns to foster stability in the region.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
