Turkey donates first batch of military uniforms to South Sudan

South Sudan's Minister of Defense (in Pink), Turkish officials and SSPDF officials at the JIA on 16 February 2023. [Photo: Radio Tamazuj]

The Turkish government on Thursday donated the first batch of 75,000 military uniforms to South Sudan’s recently graduated unified forces.

While handing over the uniforms at Juba International Airport, Erdem Mutaf, Turkish Ambassador to South Sudan, said his country will continue to support the implementation of the agreement.

“Up to now, in the Turkish Embassy, we have mobilized our resources to contribute to the peace process in an early manner in South Sudan. However this donation of 75,000 military uniforms is the most important part of our assistance to South Sudan,” said Mutaf. 

He added, “This is a gift from one of the oldest armies dated back to 209 ABC to the youngest army in the world and this donation is also a sign of strong support of Türkiye to the revitalized peace agreement of South Sudan.”

Tut Gatluak, Presidential Advisory on Security and Chairperson for National Transitional Committee (NTC) said the contribution will boost the security sector.

“We pray to God to save the Turkish nation and citizens, we thank Turkey for the effort and support and the good relations between Turkey and South Sudan,” said Gatluak.

Gatluak said the government has sent thoughts and prayers of South Sudanese people to Turkey following the devastating earthquakes which killed thousands of people.

“Turkey is passing through a difficult situation and the world is forwarding rescue missions. Turkish citizens have lost their lives, and Turkey has been supporting South Sudan. We thank the president and Turkish army," he added.

Angelina Teny, Minister of Defense and Veteran Affairs hailed the Turkish government for supporting the recently graduated unified forces uniforms.

“We thank our sisterly country, Türkiye not only because of this contribution but I think there is something we can learn from their people and leadership,” said Angelina.

“Despite the tragedy of the earthquake in Türkiye, you see the level of commitment and feelings for others, they couldn’t postpone what was arranged early on this day of 16 February and they delivered the first consignment," she added.