South Sudan’s Kiir accepts credentials of new Sudan ambassador
August 22, 2024 (JUBA) – South Sudan President Salva Kiir has officially accepted the credentials of the new ambassador of Sudan, Isam Mohamed Hassan, presenting a widow of diplomatic opportunity for more engagements on how the two countries could work together to consolidate efforts and initiatives aimed at finding a solution to containing violence and restore peace and stability.
The South Sudanese leader welcomed Hassan, a member of the military command sovereign council of Sudan, during a formal ceremony held at the presidential palace on Wednesday.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) envoy to South Sudan, Freddy Kangudia Nkutula also presented his credentials to Kiir.
“In a formal ceremony held at the President’s Office, President Salva Kiir Mayardit was presented with letters of credence from two foreign ambassadors, further solidifying diplomatic ties between their respective nations and South Sudan”, reads a statement broadcast on the state-owned television (SSBC).
The presidential press secretary evaded a direct question at a briefing Wednesday as to whether South Sudan now works closely with the military to resolve a host of longstanding post-secession issues, including border demarcation or allegations of taking sides in the conflict in Sudan.
South Sudan’s minister of foreign affairs and international cooperation, Ramadan Mohamed Abdallah Goch said relations with Sudan have never faltered, despite the prevailing security and political situation.
“The signal is unmistakable, as no head of state would accept ambassadorial credentials unless they recognize the government. In this instance, the South Sudanese leadership is treating the Sudanese envoy in the same manner as other ambassadors, a clear indication of the recognition of the sovereignty of Sudan, its territorial integrity and treating the current situation as internal political affairs”, he explained.
While South Sudan’s acceptance of Hassan’s credentials marks a significant step, it remains unclear how the diplomatic presence would influence the approach and efforts of Kiir to end the conflict in Sudan as one of the leaders of the countries in the region with a direct interest in a stable and peaceful neighbor.
Ambassador Hassan and his counterpart from the DRC expressed commitment to fostering diplomatic relations between South Sudan and their countries.
President Kiir, while addressing ambassadors for whom he received their credentials and acceptance, expressed his warm welcome and best wishes for their tenure, highlighting the importance of diplomatic relations in fostering peace, cooperation and mutual understanding between nations.
(ST)