Sudan and South Sudan held a crucial meeting on October 20 to address obstacles preventing the resumption of South Sudan’s oil exports through Sudan. South Sudan’s Advisor on National Security highlighted readiness for collaboration to ensure oil production and flow. The meeting follows a previous suspension of exports, affected by transportation line disruptions caused by local conflict. Oil remains essential for both nations’ economies amidst Sudan’s ongoing conflict since April 2023.
On October 20, representatives from Sudan and South Sudan emphasized the urgency of overcoming obstacles that hinder South Sudan’s oil exports via Sudanese territory. This dialogue took place during a meeting in Port Sudan between Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, Chairman of Sudan’s Transitional Sovereign Council and General Commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces, and Tut Gatluak, South Sudan’s Presidential Advisor on National Security. During the meeting, Gatluak conveyed that both nations’ technical teams are prepared to enhance production levels and ensure a consistent flow of oil through the Bashayer port in Sudan. He also reaffirmed South Sudan’s commitment to implement previously reached agreements with the Sudanese government, highlighting the significance of oil as a critical resource for both countries. The discussions precede a forthcoming meeting between the ministries of energy and petroleum from both nations. However, it is crucial to recognize that South Sudan’s oil exports via Sudan were suspended by Sudanese authorities in March due to a failure in the transportation infrastructure, specifically an underground pipeline blockage in the northern region of White Nile State, an area presently under the control of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. The backdrop to these negotiations is Sudan’s ongoing conflict, which has been raging since mid-April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces and RSF. Reports suggest that this conflict has led to over 24,850 casualties, further complicating the oil transportation scenario, given that oil revenue is vital for South Sudan’s economy and requires transit through Sudan for international shipment.
This article discusses the pivotal collaboration between Sudan and South Sudan regarding the resumption of oil exports, which are essential for South Sudan’s economy. The dialogue is set against the backdrop of recent logistical challenges that have disrupted oil transportation due to infrastructure damage. These discussions also surface amidst significant political and military tensions in Sudan, which have affected stability and operations within the affected regions. Oil is described as a lifeline for both countries, accentuating its critical role in their cooperation and economic well-being.
In conclusion, the recent meeting between officials from Sudan and South Sudan underscores the importance of resolving transport issues related to oil exports, which are vital for the economic stability of both nations. The commitment shown by both parties to address these challenges indicates a willingness to foster cooperation amidst external complications, including political instability in Sudan.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
