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President Museveni Arrives in Juba for High-Level Talks with President Kiir
President Yoweri Museveni has arrived in Juba, South Sudan, for a working visit at the invitation of President Salva Kiir Mayardit. The visit comes at a crucial time as South Sudan faces rising political tensions that threaten regional stability.
Upon arrival at Juba International Airport, President Museveni was received by President Kiir, alongside senior South Sudanese officials, including Minister of Presidential Affairs Hon. Chol Mawut Ajongo, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Hon. Ramadan Muhammed Abdalla, and Minister of Defense and Veteran Affairs Hon. Chol Thon Balok. On the Ugandan side, the delegation included Minister of Defense and Veteran Affairs Hon. Jacob Oboth Oboth, Senior Presidential Advisor on Defense and Security Gen. Proscovia Nalweyiso, and Ugandan Ambassador to South Sudan H.E. Brig. Gen. Ronnie Balya.
During his visit, Museveni is expected to engage in discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and fostering regional cooperation. The meeting takes place amid concerns over the escalating crisis in South Sudan, particularly following the house arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar. Kiir’s administration has accused Machar of inciting rebellion, linking him to recent clashes in the Upper Nile state, a development that has raised fears of renewed conflict reminiscent of the 2013-2018 civil war.
In response to the growing crisis, the African Union (AU) has dispatched a mediation team led by former Burundian President Domitien Ndayizeye and Kenyan judge Effie Owuor to facilitate dialogue and ensure adherence to the 2018 peace agreement. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has also urged a coordinated international effort to prevent South Sudan from slipping back into war, emphasizing the need for political dialogue and the release of detained leaders.
Museveni’s visit underscores Uganda’s vested interest in South Sudan’s stability. The two countries share significant economic ties, with Uganda being a major exporter to South Sudan and hosting a large number of South Sudanese refugees. The outcome of Museveni’s discussions with Kiir could play a key role in addressing the political impasse and fostering regional peace.
As South Sudan stands at a critical juncture, the engagement of neighboring leaders and international bodies remains essential in steering the nation toward lasting stability and peace.
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