September 20, 2024 ( JUBA) – Djibouti has offered South Sudan an alternative port for oil exports, citing the risks of relying on a single route, according to a statement from the South Sudanese government.
The proposal was delivered by Djibouti’s Foreign Minister Mahamoud Youssouf during a meeting with South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir in Juba on Wednesday. Youssouf highlighted the potential benefits of developing a new oil corridor linking South Sudan through Ethiopia to Djibouti, emphasizing its potential to boost regional economic integration.
Youssouf also expressed Djibouti’s support for lifting sanctions on South Sudan, emphasizing the need to promote economic development.
South Sudan’s Foreign Minister Ramadan Mohamed Goc confirmed receiving a special message from Djibouti’s President Ismail Omer Guelleh reaffirming his commitment to regional peace and stability.
South Sudan currently relies on a pipeline through Sudan to export its oil. However, the ongoing conflict in Sudan has disrupted oil flows and hampered economic activity.
Djibouti’s proposal offers South Sudan an opportunity to diversify its oil export routes and reduce its reliance on a single transit country.