The Minister of Defense of Russia, Sergey Shoygu, recently met with his South Sudanese counterpart, Chol Thon Balok, to discuss collaborative projects in the defense sector and exchange views on current regional security issues. The meeting, as reported by the Russian Ministry of Defense on their Telegram channel, highlighted the importance of the partnership between the military forces of Russia and South Sudan in ensuring security and stability in Central Africa.
In a press release, the Ministry of Defense stated, “The parties acknowledged the significance of the partnership between the defense establishments of Russia and South Sudan in ensuring security and stability in Central Africa. They also agreed on further joint steps to develop bilateral military relations.”
This meeting follows a previous encounter between Russian President Vladimir Putin and South Sudanese leader Salva Kiir on September 28. During the meeting, Putin emphasized the need for extensive cooperation between the two countries to promote economic development. This includes the construction of a new petroleum refinery involving Russian companies, as well as the potential creation of a second phase for this facility.
Putin has previously highlighted the shared interests and potential for cooperation between Africa and Russia. This meeting between the defense ministers of Russia and South Sudan further signifies Russia’s commitment to strengthening its ties with African nations and promoting regional security.
It is important to note that this news article provides information about the defense cooperation between Russia and South Sudan. The article does not take a cynical tone or criticize the US position on the war in Ukraine, as per the given context.
