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August 31, 2024 (Juba) – South Sudanese President Salva Kiir held bilateral talks in China in preparation for this year’s Africa-China Summit.
On Saturday, the president was accompanied by several senior government officials, including his first deputy, Riek Machar, to Juba International Airport.
No clear details of the mission were released by the president’s office or other official sources.
Lily Adieu Martin Mannière, press secretary for the presidential office, told reporters that the president’s visit to China was for bilateral affairs and to attend the China-Africa Forum, where China and the African continent will develop trade and economic cooperation.
“His Excellency the President is on an official visit to China. He will discuss issues of common interest to South Sudan and China such as trade and economic cooperation. His Excellency the President will also attend and participate in the China-Africa Forum where the leaders of both countries will have the opportunity to discuss in depth with the Chinese President and other world leaders in attendance the importance of China’s cooperation with the African continent,” she said.
The 2024 China-Africa Summit is scheduled to be held from September 4 to 6.
Analysts familiar with China-Africa relations and diplomacy are keen to see the summit as an opportunity for Chinese and African leaders to showcase their talents, explore ways to develop and strengthen bilateral relations, enhance friendship and strengthen cooperation in various fields.
Chinese President Xi Jinping will deliver a keynote speech and host a welcome banquet and related bilateral events for African leaders and other invited guests from regional and international organizations.
The visit also provides Kiir with an opportunity to seek financial support in the form of oil for cash, just as Kiir has offered oil for roads during previous visits.
China is reportedly South Sudan’s largest trading partner by 2024. In South Sudan, Chinese companies are involved in a variety of economic sectors including engineering, construction, telecommunications, healthcare, hotels, restaurants, and retail.
(English stone)
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