German Ambassador to South Sudan Christian Sedat has urged the country’s leadership to prioritize the execution of the Revitalized Peace Agreement following the extension of the transitional period by two years.
Sedat made the remarks in Juba on Thursday as Germany celebrated its 34th Unity Day.
“On the bilateral political relations, I want to highlight the visit of the German Foreign Minister to South Sudan on January 26. This topic discussed in her talks with the leadership of South Sudan remains relevant today. I will say even more so after the decision to once again extend the transitional period,” Sedat said.
“The German Foreign Minister highlighted the urgency to fully and swiftly implement the peace agreement and to do it in a way of constructive dialogue amongst all partners with the objective of finding consensus where consensus is lacking,” he added.
The German diplomat said it was important to reflect on the bilateral relations between Juba and Berlin, as Germany celebrated the unity day.
“We are here to celebrate the National Day in Juba. It is a good opportunity to look at the relations between South Sudan and Germany. Germany is a long-standing partner and friend to the people of South Sudan,” he said.
Furthermore, Sedat said, German would continue to push for the implementation of the peace agreement as South Sudanese struggled with the political, humanitarian and economic challenges.
“While the prime responsibility to address the humanitarian and social needs is on the government of South Sudan, we are here to support and to complement these efforts, and it is in that context that we play our part in contributing to address the humanitarian needs,” he said.
Ambassador Sedat also pledged to support the leadership of South Sudan in addressing the humanitarian crisis, especially for those affected by floods.
“Very concretely at the moment, providing additional funding in view of the impacts of the flooding situation, and in view of the challenge of the re-emergence of the Mpox virus in neighboring countries,” he said.
Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Monday Semaya acknowledged the bilateral ties, saying they date back before the independence of South Sudan.
“In fact, the German technical cooperation in South Sudan started two years before our independence and a lot has been done. I have a privilege, on behalf of the government, to thank them for this great support to the people and the government of South Sudan,” Semaya said.
The Deputy Minister said the German support included the programs in agriculture health and technical training.
“Germany has done a lot to the people and to the government of South Sudan. In addition, it is still doing a remarkable work, giving tremendous support to its developmental cooperation problem, especially in the fields of rural water, development, agriculture, health and technical training. We in the Republic of South Sudan appreciate the support,” he said.
While reiterating South Sudan’s commitment to working with Germany, Semaya appealed for more cooperation, especially in education, technology and cultural exchange.
“I would like to reassure the German government and people of our unwavering commitment to continue working closely with the Germany for the benefit of our people and countries,” Semaya concluded.