Apuk Ayuel, the South Sudan foreign ministry spokeswoman, announced the news to journalists during a press conference at the ministry premise in the capital Juba this afternoon.
She said here government is “extends its sincere appreciation” to the U.S. government and its embassy in Juba for facilitating the visas for the delegation, which will be led by finance and planning minister Marial Dongrin Ater.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation extends its sincere appreciation to the government of the United States and its embassy in Juba for their cooperation and facilitation in issuing entry visas to South Sudan’s delegation, led by the Minister of Finance and Planning, Honorable Dr. Marial Dongrin Ater,” she said.
Ayuel said the delegation is scheduled to participate in the meetings and other events aimed at benefiting both countries.
She added that Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Monday Semaya K. Kumba has formally written to his U.S. counterpart, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, “reaffirming the strong and enduring bilateral relations” between South Sudan and the United States.
The ministry is planning an official bilateral visit to the United States for Kumba to discuss matters of mutual interest and cooperation with his U.S. counterpart, Ayuel revealed, “underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic, political, and economic ties with the United States.”
Ayuel also thanked U.S. Ambassador to South Sudan Michael J. Adler for his “pivotal role” in coordinating the issuance of the visas, “particularly in light of the existing travel restrictions on South Sudanese nationals,” and for his continued efforts to enhance relations between the two countries.
According to Ayuel, South Sudan’s foreign ministry “remains committed” to deepening engagement with the international community and strengthening South Sudan’s diplomatic relations globally.