South Sudan says relations with UAE not aimed against Sudan
April 28, 2025 (JUBA) – South Sudan said on Monday its relations with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are not intended to harm neighbouring Sudan, emphasizing its actions are driven by national interest.
“Relations between countries are not meant to harm others. They are meant to promote national interest and enhance relations which are mutually beneficial to the two countries under international law,” said South Sudan’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Semaya Kumba.
Kumba, who was speaking upon returning from a trip to Vatican City where he represented President Salva Kiir, explained that Sudan and South Sudan are bound not only by geography but also by common interests and heritage, necessitating mutual support for peace and stability.
“We have always said that peace in Sudan means peace and stability in South Sudan,” Kumba stated. “This is because we have much in common, bound not only by geography but also by interests, cultural heritage, and relations more than with any other country in the region. Our people, despite the current situation in Sudan, are living there. This is the same in South Sudan. Some Sudanese live with their families, and they do not feel like they are foreigners.”
Relations between the UAE and South Sudan have strengthened significantly, with UAE exports reaching $414 million in 2023. Key UAE exports included knitted men’s suits ($56.1 million), knitted t-shirts ($45.7 million), and knitted women’s suits ($23.8 million).
Over the five years leading up to 2023, UAE exports to South Sudan reportedly increased at an annualized rate of 20.5%, rising from $163 million in 2018.
South Sudan’s main exports to the UAE included forage crops, gold, and other oilseeds. The airline FlyDubai also operates services between the two countries.
The UAE has also provided loans to the South Sudanese government and business leaders. Additionally, the UAE funded the construction of a field hospital in Northern Bahr el Ghazal state, near the border with Sudan. This move raised suspicions within Sudan’s Transitional Sovereign Council that the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) could potentially use the facility.
Separately, in March, President Salva Kiir met with a delegation from Saudi Arabia, led by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Waleed bin Abdulkarim Al-Khuraiji. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral ties and reviewing key regional issues.
Speaking at a media briefing, Al-Khuraiji stated that he and the President exchanged views on enhancing relations between Riyadh and Juba.
Kumba, South Sudan’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, stressed that the talks covered not only bilateral relations but also the peace process in Sudan, emphasizing regional stability.
President Kiir expressed appreciation for the Saudi visit, highlighting the positive interactions and collaboration between the two nations.
(ST)