JUBA: South Sudan and China have reaffirmed their strategic partnership, pledging to strengthen cooperation in the oil sector and expand educational exchanges. The commitment was made during a meeting in Juba between South Sudan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Monday Semaya Kumba, and Chinese Ambassador to South Sudan, Ma Qiang, according to an official statement.

The two sides held detailed discussions on energy collaboration, scholarship opportunities, and broader educational initiatives for South Sudanese students. Officials said the talks focused on consolidating bilateral ties based on mutual respect, equality, and shared interests.

China has long been a key partner in South Sudan’s oil industry, with Chinese enterprises engaged in exploration, production, and infrastructure development. Both sides emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation in the energy sector to support South Sudan’s economic recovery and sustainable development.

Ambassador Ma praised the progress of bilateral relations and reaffirmed China’s commitment to further enhancing cooperation. Minister Kumba underscored South Sudan’s dedication to deepening ties with China, guided by principles of mutual benefit.

Since South Sudan’s independence in 2011, the two countries have maintained friendly relations and practical cooperation across multiple fields, including oil, infrastructure, medical assistance, and humanitarian support. Officials said the latest pledge reflects a shared determination to expand collaboration in both economic and educational spheres.