Türkiye's ambassador to South Sudan, Metin Ergin, has died at the age of 59. Ergin passed away on Monday, November 2, 2026, after serving as Türkiye's representative in Juba since 2024. The Turkish Foreign Ministry confirmed his death, and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressed condolences to Ergin's family and colleagues.
Ergin was born in Istanbul in 1967 and joined Türkiye's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1992. He spent more than three decades in diplomatic service, serving in various roles, including consul general in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Antwerp, Belgium. His experience and dedication earned him the position of ambassador to South Sudan, where he worked to strengthen bilateral relations between Türkiye and South Sudan.
During his tenure in Juba, Ergin focused on cooperation in economic development, humanitarian assistance, and security. He engaged in recent diplomatic discussions on Turkish support for police training ahead of South Sudan's scheduled December 2026 elections. Ergin also worked on cooperation on development and visa-related agreements, solidifying Türkiye's commitment to supporting South Sudan.
Türkiye has provided significant humanitarian and development assistance to South Sudan through the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA). Ergin played a crucial role in fostering these relationships and ensuring the continuation of Türkiye's support for the region. His efforts have contributed to the growth of bilateral relations between the two countries.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan praised Ergin's service to the country, saying, "We are deeply saddened by the loss of Ambassador Metin Ergin, who represented our country in South Sudan." Fidan offered his condolences to Ergin's family, loved ones, and the Turkish community, praying for Ergin's mercy.
A memorial ceremony for Ergin will be held at the Turkish Foreign Ministry in Ankara on November 5. He will be buried at Istanbul's Zincirlikuyu Cemetery on November 6. The ceremony will serve as a tribute to Ergin's dedication and service to Türkiye and South Sudan.
Ergin's death marks the end of a remarkable diplomatic career, and his legacy will be remembered in both Türkiye and South Sudan. His contributions to strengthening bilateral relations and promoting cooperation will continue to have a lasting impact on the region.
Key points
- Türkiye's ambassador to South Sudan, Metin Ergin, died on November 2, 2026, at the age of 59.
- Ergin served as Türkiye's representative in Juba since 2024 and worked to strengthen bilateral relations between Türkiye and South Sudan.
- A memorial ceremony for Ergin will be held in Ankara on November 5, and he will be buried in Istanbul on November 6.
