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WAAT - 11 Nov 2018

SSPDF and SPLA-IO hold military talks in Waat

File photo: SPLA-IO advance team after meeting SSPDF officers in Kajo-Keji on 10 November 2018.
File photo: SPLA-IO advance team after meeting SSPDF officers in Kajo-Keji on 10 November 2018.

The South Sudanese army (SSPDF) and SPLA-IO commanders held military talks in the town of Waat on Friday, as both sides seek to build trust to implement the security arrangements deal.

The meeting brought together SPLA-IO officers led by Major General Peter Gatkuoth Gien and SSPDF officers led by General Ajak Ayuen Mach. The joint talks were facilitated by the governors of Bieh and Akobo states.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Friday, Peter Nin Tut, the information minister in Bieh state said the joint military meeting aimed at consolidating the signed peace deal.

Nin, who is also the state government spokesman, said the two sides discussed humanitarian access and free movement of civilians and soldiers. “They also agreed to control crimes,” he said.

The local official further said the military talks in the town of Waat will definitely improve the security situation in the state.

On Thursday, a delegation of SPLA-IO military commanders met with the South Sudanese army (SSPDF) in the town of Yei where they discussed humanitarian access and free movement of people.

Under the peace deal signed by President Salva Kiir and opposition groups in September, there will be an eight month pre-transitional period, followed by a three-year transitional period.