German Ambassador Outlines Priorities for South Sudan, Urges Peace Agreement Reforms

Germany’s new ambassador to South Sudan, Sebastian Brökelmann, has outlined security, stability, humanitarian assistance and implementation of the country’s peace agreement as key priorities for his tenure.

President Salva Kiir Mayardit formally accredited Brökelmann as Germany’s ambassador during a ceremony at the State House in Juba on Monday.

Brökelmann said Germany would remain a longstanding partner of the South Sudanese people and continue supporting efforts toward peace, security, democracy, the rule of law and economic development.

“The focus of German engagement in South Sudan will continuously be security and stability in the country, as well as humanitarian and development assistance for the wellbeing of the South Sudanese people,” Brökelmann said in a statement after presenting his credentials.

He said Germany’s main political priority would be the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan, commonly known as the Revitalized Peace Agreement.

Brökelmann called for genuine dialogue among all signatories and stakeholders to the agreement, including civil society.

He also identified judicial, security and economic reforms as necessary to support South Sudan’s transition toward lasting peace and democratic governance.

The ambassador said judicial reforms should help pave the way for a permanent constitution, while security sector reforms should focus on unifying the country’s military forces and creating an environment conducive to the exercise of democratic rights.

He also called for economic reforms to strengthen public financial management and combat corruption.

“Germany will continue to assist the people of South Sudan on their path towards sustainable peace, security, democracy, the rule of law and prosperity,” he said.

Brökelmann also pledged continued German support for the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, known as UNMISS, particularly its efforts to protect civilians and facilitate secure humanitarian aid deliveries.

He thanked President Kiir and the South Sudanese people for their welcome and said Germany and South Sudan had a long history of bilateral relations dating back to South Sudan’s independence.

“It is my pleasure and honour to serve as new German ambassador to further foster relations between our countries,” Brökelmann said.

The ambassador presented his letters of credence to Kiir during the ceremony at the State House.