Kiir tasks advisor with Sudan peace talks amidst oil crisis
May 28, 2024 (JUBA) – South Sudanese President Salva Kiir has directed his national security advisor, Tut Gatluak, to engage in peace negotiations with the warring factions in Sudan. The aim is to resolve the ongoing conflict and facilitate the repair of a crucial oil pipeline damaged during the fighting.
The directive was issued during a high-level meeting with the Chinese ambassador, representatives from oil companies, and officials from the Ministries of Petroleum, Security, and Defense.
Undersecretary of the Ministry of Petroleum, William Anyak Deng, told reporters that President Kiir has authorized Advisor Manime to engage with all parties involved in the Sudanese conflict. The priority is to allow engineers access to repair the ruptured pipeline, which has halted oil exports since February 6th.
“The escalating conflict has severely hindered our progress in fixing the pipeline,” Deng explained. “The President has instructed his advisor to initiate discussions to allow our engineers to address this critical issue.”
South Sudan heavily relies on oil revenue, which has been severely disrupted by the conflict in neighbouring Sudan. The stoppage of oil flow has forced some companies to suspend operations, exacerbating the economic strain on the government.
The pipeline rupture occurred in an area controlled by Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), who have been engaged in a violent conflict with the Sudanese army since April 2023.
Despite fixing the pipeline rupture, engineers have faced significant challenges in removing wax buildup due to the ongoing fighting. The conflict has hindered communication, accessibility, and delivery of materials to key sites, including pump stations.
Chinese Ambassador to South Sudan, Ma Qiang, acknowledged the difficulties faced by South Sudan’s oil sector and pledged continued Chinese support. “China remains committed to providing our support and cooperation to address these challenges. We will strengthen our bilateral cooperation in the oil sector and other areas for the mutual benefit of our peoples,” he affirmed.
(ST)