Omanghana
Salva Kiir Mayardit and Abiy Ahmed have held high-level bilateral talks in Addis Ababa, where both leaders pledged to accelerate the implementation of existing agreements aimed at strengthening economic and political ties between their countries.
The working visit took place at the invitation of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and focused on expanding cooperation in trade, infrastructure, energy, and regional security. The discussions come at a time when both South Sudan and Ethiopia are facing economic pressures and seeking stronger regional partnerships.
One of the major diplomatic outcomes of the meeting was a reciprocal land allocation agreement. Ethiopia formally handed over a plot of land in Addis Ababa for the construction of a new South Sudanese Embassy. In return, South Sudan pledged to provide land in Juba for Ethiopia’s future diplomatic mission.
Infrastructure development was another key priority. The two leaders reaffirmed support for cross-border projects, including the planned $738 million highway linking South Sudan’s Upper Nile State to Ethiopia’s Gambella Region. The road is expected to improve the movement of goods, strengthen trade links, and potentially provide South Sudan with an export route for oil through the Port of Djibouti.
Energy cooperation also featured prominently in the talks. Both countries discussed expanding collaboration in the oil sector and exploring electricity interconnection projects that could link South Sudan to Ethiopia’s growing power grid.
In aviation, progress is being made toward a formal Bilateral Air Service Agreement. Officials say the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority is providing technical support to help establish a future national carrier, tentatively known as South Sudan Airlines.
The leaders also discussed wider regional security issues and South Sudan’s ongoing political transition. Just days before the visit, President Kiir signed the East African Community Act 2026, formally incorporating the regional treaty into South Sudanese law. The move is expected to strengthen trade, legal cooperation, and regional integration with neighboring states.
The latest talks highlight growing momentum for deeper ties between Ethiopia and South Sudan, with both governments seeking to use diplomacy, trade, and infrastructure partnerships to support long-term development and regional stability.
Source: Omanghana
