South African Foreign Minister in Juba to discuss peace, bilateral ties

The visiting South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Grace Naledi Mandisa Pandor is expected to hold talks with the transitional unity government on the ongoing peace process and bilateral cooperation.

Pandor arrived on Sunday to kick start her two-day itinerary.

Paul Mashatile, South Africa’s Deputy President is expected to arrive on Monday for engagements with President Salva Kiir and other key figures in the government.

 “We are here to recommit to supporting South Sudan as it continues the work of reconstruction and strengthening stability and peace, South Africa is here as a cooperating partner to provide support and collaboration to advance the interest of both countries and the people ,” Pandor said.

“The people of South Sudan played very important role in supporting South Africa in the struggle against the evil racism of apartheid, we are here to reignite collaboration and ensure that we strengthen the partnership between South Sudan and South Africa,” she added.

Deng Dau Deng, the Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, said the two days’ visit will deepen the level of bilateral ties with South Africa.

“This is a show of deepening bilateral relations between the two sisterly countries, this is a show of solidarity and a show of commitment of the level of bilateral relations with the republic of South Africa, we will be able to benefit from the experience of South Africa,” Dau said.