In a letter to Kiir seen by Sudans Post, Putin said Russia and South Sudan “enjoy friendly relations.”
He added that he is “confident that their further development in different spheres fully meets the interests of our peoples and is in line with strengthening security and stability on the African continent.”
Putin also wished Kiir good health and every success, and all South Sudanese citizens peace and prosperity.
🇷🇺 🇸🇸 H.E. Vladimir Putin, President of Russia, sent a congratulatory message to H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of South Sudan, on the occasion of the Independence Day of the Republic of South Sudan. pic.twitter.com/pAKHZhuxes
— Russian Embassy in Uganda 🇷🇺 (@RusEmbUganda) July 9, 2023
The letter comes at a time when South Sudan is facing a number of challenges, including a fragile peace process, a humanitarian crisis, and an economic downturn.
In his letter, Putin did not mention any specific areas where he would like to see bilateral relations develop, but say he is “confident” that the two countries can work together to “strengthen security and stability on the African continent.”