South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir and Sudan’s de facto leader, Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, have reached an agreement to resume oil exports from landlocked South Sudan through Sudan, despite the ongoing civil war in Sudan. The conflict, now 17 months long, has severely disrupted South Sudan’s oil industry, a key pillar of its economy.
During talks in Juba, the two leaders discussed vital issues, including the resumption of oil exports and regional stability. South Sudan’s Foreign Minister, Ramadan Abdalla Goc, highlighted the focus on “constructive dialogue and co-operation” between both nations. He confirmed that Sudanese engineers have completed technical repairs on the damaged infrastructure, setting the stage for oil flow to resume in four months.
“Gen Burhan confirmed to President Kiir that the necessary technical preparations are complete,” said Mr. Goc. Engineers from South Sudan are set to visit Sudan to assess the readiness of the facilities. Following this, both countries will officially announce the resumption of oil exports.
The conflict in Sudan, particularly the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces’ control over key areas, raises uncertainty over whether the oil exports will proceed without interruption. Nonetheless, President Kiir reaffirmed his commitment to restoring peace in Sudan and supporting the reopening of humanitarian corridors to aid those affected by the conflict.
- Tags: Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, oil, Resources, Salva Kiir, South Sudan, Sudan
