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Sudan Tribune

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South Sudan, CAR commit to strengthen border security

South Sudan's President Salva Kiir (File/Getty Image)

August 24, 2024 (JUBA) – South Sudan and the Central African Republic (CAR) have pledged to strengthen border security between the two countries.

Of particular focus, authorities say, is the urgent need to improved roads and trade to strengthen bilateral relations and promote peace and stability in a region grappling with illicit activities that undermine law and order.
The arrangement, if implemented, presents a landmark effort in the annals of history of the two countries in the region. It is the largest initiative the South Sudan will have ever undertaken since independence and the largest by the CAR in the recent past.

Peace and security are considered economically vital to South Sudan and CAR in helping drive economic growth.

The media and government have called the agreement a “game and fate changer” for the region as the two countries intend that the massive investment plan will transform into a regional economic hub and further boost the deepening ties between the two countries.

South Sudan’s  President Salva Kiir, his office said in a statement issued on Thursday, met with a delegation from the CAR to discuss the construction of a vital road linking the two countries.

The team from the CAR was led by  Minister of Roads and Public Service, Rokosse Kamot Mathew Eric, who said that President Kiir has expressed strong support for the initiative, which aligns with the framework of the Pan-African vision to bolster infrastructure development across the continent.

Officials from the CAR say the proposed road project is expected to facilitate smoother transportation and commerce, paving way for economic growth in both South Sudan and CAR.

South Sudan’s Foreign Affairs Minister Ramadan Mohammed Abdallah Goc says Kiir has directed all relevant authorities to prioritize the initiative, highlighting government’s commitment to foster an environment of cooperation and shared development.

(ST)