S. Sudan’s Kiir and Ban Ki-Moon discuss 2015 poll

December 7, 2013 (JUBA) – South Sudanese president Salva Kiir and the United Nations secretary-general, Ban Ki-Moon, on Friday discussed the new nation’s preparations for the next elections.

Although South Sudan’s path to its 2015 seems rocky, its president has publicly admitted that the polls will be conducted as scheduled.

Ki Moon, the statement noted, also expressed concern about reports of security incidents, which have reportedly placed UN staff at risk in the new nation, following rising cases of harassment and threats.

Also discussed, it said, was the situation in the disputed region of Abyei, during which the UN chief reportedly encouraged South Sudan to maintain the current momentum in relations with Sudan, in particular to conclude the negotiation process and border issues.

IMPROVED RELATIONS

Meanwhile the South Sudanese leader, in a bid attract foreign investors, affirmed his government’s commitment to build and strengthen bilateral relations with European countries.

Kiir reportedly made this remarks shortly before he left for the Paris summit on the invitation of his French counterpart, Francoise Hollande.

(ST)