South Sudan FM: We Look Forward to a Pivotal Saudi Role in Africa

South Sudan Foreign Minister Mayiik Ayii Deng, Asharq Al-Awsat (Saad Dossary)

South Sudan Foreign Minister Mayiik Ayii Deng affirmed that Juba strives for a comprehensive strategic partnership with Riyadh and looks forward to a pivotal role for Saudi Arabia in contributing to the country’s advancement by injecting investments in vital development projects.

As for Yemen, Deng said that the “Riyadh Agreement” is a real crossing point for a political solution to the crisis. He also denied his country having any relations with Iran at any level.

“We signed an agreement with Saudi Arabia for comprehensive cooperation in various fields, such as investment, education, health, diplomatic relations, coordination, and consultation on issues of common interest in international forums, and we affirmed that Juba supports Riyadh in hosting the Expo 2030 event,” Deng told Asharq Al-Awsat.

Moreover, the top diplomat reaffirmed that Juba stands by Riyadh’s side in fighting off terrorism.

“My visit to Saudi Arabia aimed at introducing ourselves, as the government of South Sudan, to the Kingdom, and then deepening relations with it in various economic and political fields, under the guidance of President Salva Kiir Mayardit, who showed great interest in that,” Deng added, noting that he presented investment opportunities to the Kingdom.

“South Sudan is an important gateway for the Kingdom to Africa,” he stressed.

“We look forward to Riyadh playing a pivotal role not only in the Middle East but also in our African countries, and to contribute to the recovery of investment in our country,” revealed the minister.