South Sudanese president Salva Kiir hopes that Sudan will manage to overcome its current crisis, state news agency SUNA reported.

Kiir expressed his hope during a telephone call to his Sudanese counterpart President Omar al-Bashir on Saturday, as anti-government demonstrations in Sudan over rising food prices continue.

The South Sudanese leader affirmed that the stability of neighbouring Sudan is crucial for peace and stability in the youngest nation, SUNA said on Saturday.

It further said President Kiir expressed confidence that Sudan, with the wisdom of its leadership and the political maturity of its people, will overcome the ongoing crisis.

For his part, President Omar al-Bahir appreciated President Salva Kiir for his call and reassured him that the situation in the country was stable throughout the country.

Bashir, an Islamist and army officer, came to power via a military coup in 1989.