(JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN) – The Chinese Embassy in South Sudan hosted a reception in Juba on Monday to mark the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, with officials from both countries noting expanding bilateral cooperation.
Senior Presidential Advisor Kuol Manyang Juuk commended China’s progress in economic development, infrastructure, technology, education and human development.
“South Sudan sees considerable potential for expanded economic and commercial cooperation with China,” Juuk said.
Juuk said South Sudan seeks to deepen bilateral cooperation in key sectors, including trade, investment, agriculture, infrastructure, energy, education and health.
He noted that expanded collaboration in these areas will promote local value addition, job creation, industrial development and sustainable economic growth.
Juuk said South Sudan views China as a key development partner, expressing appreciation for China’s continued contributions to national infrastructure, humanitarian assistance and capacity building initiatives.
Chinese Ambassador to South Sudan Ma Qiang noted that China and South Sudan have maintained a relationship based on mutual respect and equal partnership since establishing diplomatic ties.
Ma reaffirmed China’s respect for South Sudan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and self determined development path, and repeated China’s support for the country’s peace, stability and socio economic progress.
He highlighted key Chinese backed projects in the country, including the South Sudan Air Traffic Management System, a 47 well water supply initiative and ongoing expansion work at Juba Teaching Hospital.
Ma also noted that 14 Chinese medical teams have deployed mobile clinics across various states in South Sudan, alongside thousands of training and scholarship opportunities provided to strengthen local capacity.
The Chinese ambassador added that China has expanded zero tariff access to all 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations, a policy expected to ease access for South Sudanese goods to the Chinese market.
He reaffirmed China’s readiness to assist South Sudan in converting its natural and strategic assets into sustainable development momentum while further advancing bilateral relations.
In his speech, Ambassador Ma noted the historic achievements of the Communist Party of China in the 105 years since its founding and the four global initiatives. He stated that China and South Sudan always uphold mutual respect and sincere cooperation, adding that China is ready to continue working with South Sudan for common development and to promote the bilateral relationship to new heights.
On behalf of the South Sudanese government, Juuk extended warmest congratulations and best wishes to the Chinese government and people.
He expressed gratitude for China’s long standing support for peace, stability and development of South Sudan and affirmed that South Sudan will work with China to further deepen friendship and cooperation between the two countries.
The anniversary reception was attended by South Sudanese government officials, foreign diplomats, representatives of international organisations and members of the local Chinese expatriate community, with nearly 300 representatives present.
Among those present were Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Philip Jada Natana and Minister of Trade and Industry Dr. Labanya Margaret Mathya Ugila, as well as diplomatic envoys to South Sudan and overseas Chinese communities in the country.
Guests enjoyed cultural performances presented by representatives of the 14th Batch of Chinese Medical Teams, China Petroleum Engineering and Construction Corporation, the 12th Chinese Peacekeeping Infantry Battalion and children from the Azande Kingdom of South Sudan, filling the venue with a warm and festive atmosphere.
