On October 20, 2023, Sudan and South Sudan acknowledged the need to resolve issues affecting South Sudan’s oil exports through Sudan. During a meeting in Port Sudan, both nations’ officials emphasized readiness to increase oil production and rectify transportation challenges, which have been exacerbated by ongoing conflict in Sudan. Oil is pivotal for South Sudan’s economy, and its transport through Sudan remains essential to access international markets.
On October 20, 2023, Sudan and South Sudan reaffirmed their commitment to overcoming the hurdles hindering the resumption of South Sudan’s oil exports through Sudanese territory. This collaboration was highlighted during a meeting in Port Sudan between Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, the Chairman of Sudan’s Transitional Sovereign Council and General Commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), and South Sudan’s Presidential Advisor on National Security, Tut Gatluak. In a statement following their discussions, Mr. Gatluak underscored the preparedness of both countries’ technical teams to enhance production capabilities and facilitate the flow of oil from the Sudanese port of Bashayer. He emphasized South Sudan’s commitment to honoring previously made agreements with the Sudanese government, stating that a forthcoming meeting between the ministries of energy and petroleum of both nations would address these issues. Mr. Gatluak declared, “Oil is a lifeline for the people of both countries.” This mutual effort follows a suspension of South Sudan’s oil exports as announced by the Sudanese government in March of this year due to issues in the transportation pipeline. The disruption stemmed from a blockage in an underground pipeline located in White Nile State, an area under the control of paramilitary forces. This situation exacerbated an already complex scenario, as Sudan has been engulfed in conflict between the SAF and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since mid-April 2023, leading to significant humanitarian challenges and resulting in over 24,850 reported fatalities according to the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project. Oil exports are crucial for South Sudan’s economy, significantly contributing to its national revenue. Consequently, South Sudan depends heavily on Sudan for access to international oil markets. The cooperation between these neighboring nations is thus essential not only for economic revival but also for the stability of the region amid ongoing conflicts.
The relationship between Sudan and South Sudan is often marked by economic dependencies, particularly regarding oil exports. Following South Sudan’s independence in 2011, the new nation inherited a significant portion of the oil reserves but relied on Sudan for the infrastructure required to transport that oil to global markets. However, disruptions, such as conflicts and infrastructural issues, frequently threaten this crucial economic lifeline. The latest challenges stem from internal strife in Sudan, affecting the safety and efficiency of oil transportation routes. Furthermore, the ongoing conflict between the SAF and RSF adds complexity, impacting not just oil exports but also the broader socio-economic landscape in both countries.
In conclusion, the discussions between Sudan and South Sudan signify a critical step towards resolving the transport challenges facing South Sudan’s oil exports. With oil serving as an economic backbone for both nations, their cooperation is fundamentally important for stability and economic recovery in a region plagued by conflict. The commitment to address these operational impediments reflects a broader intention to foster mutual interests and ensure the livelihoods dependent on these resources are safeguarded.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
