South Sudan has expressed support for U.S.-backed ceasefire negotiations taking place in Switzerland between Sudan’s warring factions, highlighting the potential for the talks to save lives and prevent further destruction.
South Sudan’s Foreign Minister Ramadan Mohamed Abdallah praised the initiative, noting that the conflict in Sudan has led to severe humanitarian crises, including widespread starvation and displacement.
“We have consistently advocated for peace in Sudan,” Abdallah said. “President Salva Kiir Mayardit has always promoted a peaceful resolution through dialogue.”
On Wednesday, the United States announced it had invited the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to Geneva for ceasefire talks.
The discussions aim to establish a nationwide ceasefire, facilitate humanitarian access, and create a robust monitoring mechanism to oversee the implementation of any agreements reached.
South Sudan, heavily affected by the conflict, has seen disruptions in its oil exports due to the war.
A critical pipeline responsible for two-thirds of South Sudan’s oil exports broke down in February and cannot be repaired amid ongoing fighting. This disruption has significantly impacted South Sudan’s revenue and exacerbated food shortages and instability.
“Regional and global partners should prepare to provide emergency relief to South Sudan as efforts to end the conflict in Sudan intensify,” Abdallah said. “Hundreds of thousands have fled southward to a country already struggling to support its own population.”
