South Sudan and DRC bordering states sign cooperation agreement

July 4, 2013 (JUBA) – The bordering states of the Republic of South Sudan (RSS) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have signed a cooperation agreement to tackle border security, economic and socio-cultural activities between the two sisterly countries.

The five-year renewable agreement was signed on 23rd June 2013 by the three governors of the RSS’ Central Equatoria and Western Equatoria states and the governor of the Province Orientale of DRC.

Central Equatoria state governor, Clement Wani Konga, on Thursday briefed the vice-president, Riek Machar, on the contents of the agreement.

The parties to the agreement have expressed commitment to encourage collaboration between their law enforcement agencies and security organs.

Vice-president’s press secretary, James Gatdet Dak, told Sudan Tribune on Thursday that the agreement also calls for formulation of a joint action plan to improve and promote good relations between the three bordering states.

The three governors also agreed to establish Tripartite Commission and Governors’ Forum as well as sub-commissions on security and border control.

The agreement also calls for cooperation in economic development and socio-cultural activities.

(ST)