In a diplomatic move underscoring the deepening ties between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of South Sudan, His Excellency President Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan received His Excellency Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Engineer Waleed bin Abdulkarim Al-Khuraiji, on Monday at the Presidential Palace in Juba. This official visit is part of a tour aimed at strengthening cooperation and discussing the latest developments on the regional and international scenes.
At the outset of the meeting, Engineer Al-Khuraiji conveyed the greetings of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Prime Minister – may God protect them – to His Excellency President Salva Kiir, and their sincere wishes for the government and people of South Sudan to achieve further progress and prosperity. The meeting included a comprehensive review of bilateral relations between the two countries and ways to support and develop them in various fields to serve their common interests.
Historical context and strategic importance
This visit gains significance from the historical and geopolitical context of the region. The Republic of South Sudan, which gained its independence in 2011 as the world's newest nation, is striving to establish stability and development after years of challenges. Saudi Arabia, with its considerable political and economic influence, views South Sudan as a crucial partner in the Horn of Africa and Red Sea region, an area of vital strategic importance to global security and international trade. The Kingdom has long played a pivotal role in supporting peace and stability efforts in the region, including its ongoing efforts to resolve the crisis in neighboring Sudan.
Expected impact at the regional and international levels
These talks are expected to have a positive impact that extends beyond the borders of the two countries. Regionally, strengthening Saudi relations with Juba sends a strong message of support for the peace and development process in South Sudan, contributing to the stability of the entire region. Furthermore, coordination between Riyadh and Juba on regional issues, particularly Red Sea security and the situation in Sudan, bolsters diplomatic efforts aimed at finding peaceful and sustainable solutions to existing challenges. Internationally, this visit underscores Saudi Arabia's proactive and balanced diplomacy and its commitment to building strong partnerships with African nations, in line with the goals of Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify partnerships and enhance the Kingdom's role as an influential force on the global stage.
The reception was attended by the Director General of the General Department for African Affairs, Ambassador Saqr Al-Qurashi, reflecting the institutional interest that the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs attaches to developing these vital relations.
