His Excellency President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Friday held advanced talks with South African Deputy President H.E. Paul Mashatile, focusing on accelerating the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Agreement and strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries.
The meeting reaffirmed the deep historical ties between South Sudan and South Africa, with Deputy President Mashatile reflecting on previous high-level engagements, including his visit to Juba in October last year and the December mission by South Sudan’s Senior Presidential Envoy on Special Programs. Both sides agreed that these engagements have laid a strong foundation for advancing cooperation and transitioning ongoing discussions into concrete outcomes.
According to Presidential Press Secretary Arek Aldo Ajou, the talks covered a range of strategic issues, including electoral support, peace implementation, and expanding economic partnerships. Key sectors identified for cooperation include mining, aviation, agriculture, healthcare, education, tourism, and oil, alongside discussions on a potential visa waiver program and the establishment of direct air links between the two countries.
Deputy President Mashatile, who also serves as South Africa’s Special Envoy to South Sudan, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to peace and stability, emphasising that an inclusive national dialogue remains essential and must be led by the South Sudanese people. He underscored the complementary roles of regional mechanisms, noting that while the C5 provides strategic oversight on the peace process, IGAD continues to serve as the primary mediator among the parties and signatories. He further called for increased engagement with non-signatory groups to de-escalate tensions and prevent further conflict.
President Kiir welcomed South Africa’s continued support and reiterated the government’s firm commitment to holding elections as scheduled. He emphasised that elections remain a cornerstone of the peace process, stating that South Sudan is prepared to proceed without further delays. Both leaders agreed that credible elections and sustained dialogue are critical to securing long-term peace and stability.
In a move to deepen economic ties, the two sides agreed in principle to convene the inaugural South Africa–South Sudan Business Summit in Juba, aimed at boosting investment and private sector collaboration. Deputy President Mashatile also announced plans to visit South Sudan this year, signaling a shift from deliberation to decisive action in advancing bilateral and regional priorities.
