Deputy Foreign Minister, World Bank Hold Talks on Development

(Juba) – South Sudan’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Akuei Bona Malwal, held a meeting with Mr. Charles Underland, the World Bank’s Country Representative in South Sudan, on 27 June 2025.

The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation and addressing key areas of mutual interest between the government and the international financial institution.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry, the discussion was described as “fruitful” and aimed at deepening collaboration between South Sudan and the World Bank in ongoing and future development initiatives.

While the ministry did not disclose the full details of the agenda, such meetings typically cover issues related to infrastructure, public service delivery, economic stabilisation, and financial assistance.

Ambassador Malwal reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with the World Bank to support South Sudan’s development goals.

Mr. Underland, on his part, welcomed the government’s willingness to engage in dialogue and cooperation. He stressed the World Bank’s interest in ensuring that its partnerships in South Sudan produce tangible outcomes for the population, particularly in areas such as education, health, agriculture, and economic governance.

The World Bank has remained a key development partner in South Sudan since the country’s independence in 2011. Despite challenges including conflict, instability, and economic hardship, the Bank has supported a range of programmes designed to improve livelihoods and build resilience.

The Ministry reiterated its readiness to maintain open and constructive dialogue with all development partners and called for greater international investment in South Sudan’s future.