SPLM Secretary-General Pagan Amum says he intends to visit Khartoum in order to engage in serious talks with Sudan’s  ruling National Congress Party (NCP).

Amum, who led the SPLM-Former Detainees faction which recently rejoined the government of President Salva Kiir, said they want to open a new chapter in implementing Joint Cooperation Agreements and all outstanding issues between the two countries.

The SPLM leader pointed out that he is currently working to reunify the SPLM party for the sake of peace and stability in South Sudan. Before the start of the civil war, Amum and others in his group criticized Kiir's leadership style.

Amum revealed that that the planned visit to Khartoum is part of similar visits to other neighbouring countries.

“Sudan could play a positive role in achieving peace and stability in South Sudan. Likewise, South Sudan could also play a positive role in contributing toward stability in Sudan,” he said.

Meanwhile, Amum confirmed he will return to the capital Juba before 9 July in order to work for the reunification of the SPLM party.

The SPLM leader said some members of the "Former Detainees" group led by Deng Alor will remain abroad where they will engage with IGAD and other partners so a comprehensive peace is achieved in South Sudan.