2023-09-29 07:12:02
JUBA, South Sudan (AP) — South Sudanese President Salva Kiir, who visited Russia, agreed in a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin to expand their relationship in energy, trade and other areas, particularly oil .
The two leaders met in Moscow on Thursday and also discussed political and security issues in South Sudan, which is preparing for its first presidential election in December 2024. The country gained independence from Sudan in 2011, and Kiir has led the country since so.
According to a video released by the Kremlin, Putin said that the development of oil refineries in South Sudan with the participation of Russian companies would strengthen ties.
“This is just the beginning. “We have many good opportunities in a variety of fields, including energy,” Putin said.
Currently, Russia’s Safinat Group is working on a refinery in Unity State, South Sudan.
Russia’s invitation to Kiir came as world powers appeal to African nations for support over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
South Sudan is under pressure from the United States and other allies to implement a peace deal signed in 2018 to end a five-year civil war and prepare for elections.
For its part, South Sudan wants arms embargoes lifted. Russia, as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, might help.
Kiir said that “the world dictates that no one can survive or succeed alone” and told Putin that the young country needs “strong friends and you are one of them.”
Putin and Kiir also discussed peace and security in Africa and international affairs.
This is the second time that the president of South Sudan visits Russia. Kiir attended the first Russia-Africa summit in 2019.
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