By Yiep Joseph
President Salva Kiir Mayardit has returned to Juba following a two-day state visit to Ethiopia that has been described as productive and outcome-oriented.
According to the Presidential Press Unit, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Monday Simaya Kumba, said the visit significantly strengthened diplomatic ties between South Sudan and Ethiopia while also opening new areas of cooperation in key sectors.
President Kiir traveled to Addis Ababa at the invitation of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, where the two leaders held extensive discussions on political stability, economic partnership, and regional security.
Minister Simaya said the talks focused on practical steps to deepen relations between the two countries, moving beyond general cooperation toward concrete implementation frameworks.
At the centre of the outcomes was a major diplomatic agreement on reciprocal embassy land allocations. South Sudan secured land in Addis Ababa for the construction of its embassy, while Ethiopia will also receive land in Juba for its diplomatic mission.
“In a significant diplomatic milestone, the two governments agreed on reciprocal land allocations for embassy construction. South Sudan has been allocated land in Addis Ababa for its embassy, while Ethiopia will receive land in Juba for its diplomatic mission,” part of the statement read.
The discussions also covered regional peace and stability in the Horn of Africa, alongside South Sudan’s domestic political transition, including preparations for upcoming elections and efforts to strengthen national institutions.
On the economic front, the two leaders agreed to expand cooperation in infrastructure development, oil and energy, trade, and transport connectivity. According to the minister, both sides expressed a shared interest in improving cross-border trade and developing economic corridors that link the two countries.
The talks further reaffirmed the long-standing political relationship between President Kiir and Prime Minister Abiy, with both leaders pledging continued consultation on regional security challenges.
Hon. Monday Simaya Kumba described the visit as delivering “clear and practical outcomes,” noting that it has strengthened trust and cooperation between Juba and Addis Ababa.
He added that the visit is widely viewed as reinforcing diplomatic relations while opening new opportunities for economic and political cooperation with long-term benefits for both countries.
Diplomatic observers say the visit marks a renewed push to shift South Sudan–Ethiopia relations from general engagement to structured economic and political integration, with both governments now expected to begin implementing the agreements reached in Addis Ababa.