South Sudan has called on Türkiye to consider extending its existing visa exemption arrangement to South Sudanese holders of ordinary passports. This move would further strengthen trade, tourism, and people-to-people relations between the two countries. The appeal was made by Caretaker Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Philip Jada Natana, during a reception in Juba marking the 103rd anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Türkiye.
The existing visa exemption arrangement for diplomatic passport holders permits stays of up to 90 days and has facilitated official engagements between the two countries. However, extending the arrangement to ordinary passport holders would create greater opportunities for citizens to engage in bilateral activities. Ambassador Natana emphasized that South Sudan is seeking a true partnership with Türkiye, not just a diplomatic relationship.
Türkiye was among the first countries to recognise South Sudan following its independence in 2011, demonstrating a lasting friendship and solidarity. The two countries have collaborated in areas such as trade, mining, investment, infrastructure, and economic development. In 2017, they signed agreements including the Agreement on Trade and Economic Cooperation and the Development Cooperation Agreement.
The Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) has made significant contributions to South Sudan, including support during the COVID-19 pandemic. TİKA donated medical protective equipment to the Dr John Garang Infectious Diseases Unit and provided sewing machines and fabrics to support local production of face masks. The agency has also empowered women economically through the provision of equipment for a women’s enterprise and the establishment of a soap-making facility.
Ambassador Natana highlighted cultural exchanges, including Turkish cuisine, as another avenue for strengthening connections between the peoples of the two countries. He described the relationship as one founded on mutual respect and shared aspirations. The Deputy Minister commended Türkiye for its commitment to supporting South Sudan’s development and cooperation.
Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Türkiye in South Sudan, Ms. Zeynep Curabeyoglu, reaffirmed Ankara’s commitment to supporting South Sudan’s peace, stability, and prosperity. She expressed hope that the longstanding friendship between the two countries would grow stronger in the years ahead and thanked South Sudanese guests for attending the celebration.
The reception, which brought together government officials, diplomats, and other invited guests, commemorated Türkiye’s national anniversary and celebrated the longstanding relations between the two countries. Ms. Curabeyoglu extended her condolences to the government and people of South Sudan on the death of General Joseph Lagu.
Key points
- South Sudan seeks to extend visa exemption to ordinary passport holders to boost bilateral relations with Türkiye.
- Türkiye has made significant contributions to South Sudan’s development through TİKA.
- The two countries have strengthened ties in trade, mining, investment, infrastructure, and economic development.
