![President Salva Kiir inspecting the guard of honor during the graduation ceremony of necessary unified forces at Dr. John Garang Mausoleum in Juba. [Photo by Eye Radio]](https://i0.wp.com/www.sudanspost.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/2C509A9C-EFB8-4A0D-93A8-952EA8C607FB.png?resize=850%2C453&quality=80&ssl=1)
The talks, aimed at bringing in opposition groups not signatories to the revitalized peace agreement, was launched in Nairobi, Kenya on Thursday and are mediated by Kenyan President William Ruto.
Speaking to reporters at Juba airport, foreign minister Ramadan Abdallah Goc said Kiir initiated the talks and expressed optimism for the outcome of the talks also dubbed as “Tumaini Initiative.”
“President Kiir reiterated his administration’s determination to negotiate with the holdout groups and reach a peace deal,” Goc said.
During the opening ceremony on Thursday, Kiir appealed to South Sudanese citizens who fled the conflict to return home and contribute to the nation’s development.
He also encouraged participation in the upcoming December general elections.
