South Sudan Keen to Bolster Its Relations with Ethiopia, Says South Sudan’s Deputy Head of Mission

Addis Ababa, June 5, 2026 — South Sudan is keen to further strengthen its bilateral relations with Ethiopia, according to South Sudan’s Deputy Head of Mission to Ethiopia, Ambassador Boutros Thok Deng.

In an exclusive interview with ENA, Ambassador Deng said Ethiopia and South Sudan continue to enjoy strong and steadily growing ties founded on a shared history, regional cooperation, and longstanding people-to-people connections.

He noted that the two neighboring countries have maintained close relations and are committed to deepening cooperation across various sectors.

Ambassador Deng further elaborated that the relationship between the two neighboring countries is deeply rooted in their common regional heritage.

Describing the two nations as “one blood,” the diplomat noted that the bond extends beyond formal diplomatic engagement and reflects longstanding familial and cultural connections between their peoples.

He recalled Ethiopia’s support during critical periods of South Sudan’s history, stating that the Ethiopian people played a significant role in providing protection and assistance that contributed to South Sudan’s path to independence and the peace it enjoys today.

According to the ambassador, Ethiopia and South Sudan work closely together as partners in promoting regional stability and development, describing Ethiopia as a key pillar in the region.

Ambassador Deng added that the two countries are currently focusing on major areas of cooperation including road infrastructure development, power connectivity, aviation, and business engagement.

He explained that ongoing efforts include road projects linking Ethiopia’s Gambella region with South Sudan, electricity interconnection initiatives, support for the development of South Sudan’s aviation sector, and expanded economic cooperation through business partnerships.

“Road development starting from Gambella toward Fagak, power connectivity between Ethiopia’s Gambella region and South Sudan, the establishment of South Sudan’s airline, and economic cooperation through business engagement are the four priority areas of collaboration,” he said.

The ambassador also revealed that a business exhibition bringing together entrepreneurs and investors from Ethiopia and South Sudan is scheduled for July, with the aim of strengthening trade and investment relations between the two countries.

Furthermore, he noted that the four-day diplomatic training program that commenced today in Addis Ababa for South Sudanese diplomats will help deepen bilateral cooperation and enhance diplomatic engagement between the two nations.