In her remark during the media weekly briefing, spokesperson Amb. Apuk Ayuel Mayen explained that cattle herders from Eastern Equatoria state accidentally cross the international border.
“The ministry is coordinating the safe return of 27 youth from Eastern Equatorial State who are currently detained in Muzan prison in Ethiopia,” Apuk said.
“They were cattle herders, so they were armed. And they faced detention on the other side. And so, through our embassy in Addis Ababa, we are negotiating with the government of Ethiopia for their release,” she added.
However, foreign affairs did not specify the exact date when the South Sudanese nationals were arrested in Ethiopia after crossing the border with Ethiopia.
The spokesperson also stated that foreign affairs is assisting the repatriation of South Sudanese nationals deported from other countries, such as the United States, Egypt, and Libya.
“In addition, the Ministry continues to facilitate the return of South Sudanese nationals deported from various countries, including the United States, Egypt, Libya, among others,”
Ms. Auk noted that South Sudan received eight deportees from the United States on July 5, including one South Sudanese citizen and a Mexican national who was repatriated to Mexico last weekend.
“The Ministry reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to international cooperation and the protection of third-country nationals, including the safe and humane repatriation of six other foreign nationals currently in the custody of the Republic of South Sudan to their countries of origin,”
Foreign Affairs said this action underscored Juba administration’s dedication to upholding international law, responsible consular practices, and constructive diplomatic engagement.
Besides, she highlighted President Salva Kiir Mayardit’s recent visit to Ethiopia, where he attended the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam and held bilateral talks with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.
The discussions, Apuk said, focused on strengthening cooperation in trade, infrastructure, energy, and regional integration, including potential access to Ethiopian electricity.
She pointed out that President Kiir also met with regional leaders from Kenya, Djibouti and Somalia, as well as dignitaries from Barbados and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
