Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Friday that Moscow had raised its scholarship quota for South Sudanese students to 40 places for the 2026-2027 academic year. This decision was made during a meeting with President of South Sudan Salva Kiir in Moscow, where they discussed expanding bilateral relations. The meeting marked a significant step in strengthening cooperation between the two countries.
Putin stated that Russia would continue to support the training of South Sudanese personnel as part of efforts to strengthen cooperation between the two countries. He made the announcement at the Kremlin, emphasizing Russia's commitment to assisting South Sudan in developing its human resources. The scholarship quota increase provides additional opportunities for South Sudanese citizens to pursue higher education and professional training at Russian institutions.
The fields of study covered by the allocation were not specified by Putin during the meeting. However, the announcement is expected to enhance educational cooperation between Russia and South Sudan. The two countries have maintained friendly relations, and this move is seen as a gesture of goodwill. This development also reflects the 15th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and South Sudan.
Putin and Kiir also discussed trade and economic ties during their meeting. Putin acknowledged that the potential of their relationship had not been fully realized and expressed a desire to explore ways to strengthen bilateral trade and economic engagement. The two leaders recognized the need to identify new opportunities for cooperation and to build on existing partnerships.
In addition to education and trade, Putin and Kiir discussed cooperation between Russia and South Sudan in international affairs. Putin expressed satisfaction with the close alignment of their positions on key issues at the United Nations. The meeting provided a platform for the two leaders to review the main areas of bilateral cooperation and discuss issues of mutual interest.
Kiir welcomed the closer ties with Russia and expressed his government's commitment to developing cooperation between the two countries. He was accompanied by a delegation of ministers and senior government officials from various sectors, who met with Russian officials to discuss opportunities for collaboration. The visit followed the third Russia-Africa Summit, held in Moscow on October 28 and 29.
The South Sudanese delegation included caretaker Foreign Affairs Minister Cecilia Adut Manyok, Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Wek Mamer Kuol, and Petroleum Minister Awow Daniel Chuang, among others. The talks reflect South Sudan's efforts to expand its international partnerships and attract cooperation in education, trade, and economic development.
Key points
- Russia has raised its scholarship quota for South Sudanese students to 40 places for the 2026-2027 academic year.
- The two countries are working to expand bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
- Russia and South Sudan have maintained friendly relations, marking the 15th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year.
