South Sudan’s FM: We look forward to a pivotal Saudi role in Africa

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of South Sudan, Mayiik Ayii Deng, affirmed that Juba is striving to create a comprehensive strategic partnership with Riyadh, and looks forward to a pivotal role for Saudi Arabia to contribute to the advancement of the country by injecting investments in vital development projects.

He considered that the “Riyadh Agreement” is a real crossing point for a political solution to the Yemeni crisis, denying the existence of his country’s relations with Iran at any level.

In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat from Riyadh, Deng said: “We signed an agreement with Saudi Arabia for comprehensive cooperation in various fields, such as investment, education, health, diplomatic relations, coordination and consultation on issues of common interest in international forums.

We affirmed that Juba supports Riyadh is hosting the Expo 2030 event, as well as our position in cooperation with Riyadh in the fight against terrorism and the Riyadh Agreement as a bridge to a political solution to the right-wing crisis.”

He added: “My visit to Saudi Arabia aimed to introduce ourselves, as the government of South Sudan, to the Kingdom, and then deepen relations with it in various economic and political fields, under the guidance of President Salva Kiir Mayardit, who showed great interest in that.

It carried a message from President Salva Kiir to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz in this context, as well as offering investment opportunities in South Sudan.

He pointed out that “South Sudan is an important gateway for the Kingdom to Africa, and we look forward to Riyadh playing a pivotal role not only in the Middle East, but also in our African countries, and to contribute to the recovery of investment in our country.

Joint work can be strengthened with Khartoum to benefit from the environment and the government.”, he added.