Kiir, Ethiopian deputy premier discuss bilateral relations

JUBA — South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir and Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister, Demeke Mekonnen on Thursday discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations between the two sisterly countries.

The two leaders held a discussion at the state house in Juba in the afternoon.

“Today the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, H.E. Demeke Mekonnen arrived in Juba this morning for a one-day visit to discuss with H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit to discuss issues pertinent to bilateral relations between Ethiopia and South Sudan,” said a statement issued by South Sudan Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday.

It said the government of South Sudan always takes a keen interest in her relations with the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

“The Ethiopian people have built a great civilization upon ancient roots and have developed inseparable relations with the people of South Sudan over centuries. Given such historic relations and the contemporary role it plays in the region, the people of South Sudan will always rise with their brothers and sisters in Ethiopia or stumble with them,” it said.

“South Sudan’s independence was facilitated by the fraternal support of Ethiopians. The Republic of South Sudan is morally indebted to the Ethiopian people and we remain steadfast in pursuing means that deepen and strengthen our friendly relations as people bound together by blood, culture, and common history,” it added.