South Sudan, China celebrate strong partnership at Spring Festival reception
By Denis Ejulu
South Sudanese and Chinese officials on Thursday highlighted the need to strengthen bilateral relations and partnerships in critical fields of development at the Spring Festival reception hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Juba to mark the upcoming Chinese New Year, the Year of the Horse.
Speaking at the event, Adut Salva Kiir, Senior Presidential Envoy for Special Programs and also daughter of President Salva Kiir reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthen existing cooperation between the two countries to ensure Chinese investments in critical sectors of the economy.
“I wish to reiterate that the government of the Republic of South Sudan under the leadership of President Salva Kiir, is committed to excellent good relations with the People’s Republic of China,” she said at the ceremony held in Juba.
Adut emphasized that her country stands ready to benefit on mutual cooperation with Beijing in the fields of technology, infrastructural development, oil and gas, trade and investment, and education not excluding our critical sectors of the economy such as mining and agriculture.
She noted that Chinese year of the horse provides opportunity for the two governments to act decisively in pushing bilateral engagements to the highest level.
Chinese female peacekeepers perform at the Spring Festival reception on Jan.5.2026 in Juba.
In traditional Chinese culture, the horse symbolizes strength, speed, bravery, loyalty, freedom and talent. People born in the Year of the Horse are often expected to be brave, steady, upright, faithful and independent.
Chinese Ambassador to South Sudan, Ma Qiang noted that China-South Sudan strategic partnership has continued to deepen, with frequent high-level exchanges and stronger political mutual trust.
He disclosed that practical cooperation between the two countries in infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and people’s livelihoods has steadily moved forward.
“China consistently follows the principle of sincerity, real results, amity, and good faith. We support South Sudan in pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions, stand ready to share development opportunities, and contribute to South Sudan’s peaceful reconstruction and development. South Sudan firmly adheres to the One-China principle, and our bilateral cooperation enjoys broad prospects,” Ma said.
Ma also commended the dedication and perseverance of Chinese enterprises and institutions, peacekeeping personnel, and the Chinese medical team in contributing immensely to South Sudan’s peace and stability.
“You have devoted yourselves to the mission of peace, worked diligently for mutual benefit and win-win cooperation, enriched cultural exchanges, and helped build bridges of mutual understanding. Your hard work exemplifies responsibility, and your actions convey friendship. To all of you, I express my heartfelt gratitude and high respect,” he added.
