Juba, South Sudan – The Republic of South Sudan has acknowledged Sweden’s decision to shutter its section office in Juba. In a statement issued Tuesday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation expressed understanding for the move, citing the sovereign right of nations to reorganize their diplomatic presence based on prevailing conditions.
The closure comes after a half-century of Swedish engagement in South Sudan, a period marked by strong bilateral relations, according to the statement. The South Sudanese government extended gratitude to the people and government of Sweden for their support during the country’s struggle for independence and in the years that followed.
Sweden’s development agency, SIDA, and other Swedish NGOs have been instrumental in bolstering South Sudan’s health, education, and rural development sectors. The government hopes these organizations will maintain their commitment to these vital areas.
While the physical presence of the Swedish embassy will be reduced, diplomatic ties between the two nations will persist. South Sudan will continue to engage Sweden through its embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and anticipates the appointment of a non-resident Swedish representative to Juba.
