Juba Welcomes Israeli Diplomacy Mission

(JUBA) – Israel’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel is holding a series of official meetings in South Sudan, marking the first visit to the East African nation by a representative of the Israeli government.

Haskel’s office confirmed that she will meet with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit, the country’s foreign minister, the speaker of parliament and other senior officials. Kiir has led South Sudan since its independence in 2011.

Speaking in a statement, Haskel highlighted South Sudan’s ongoing humanitarian challenges.

She said the country is “facing a real humanitarian crisis and the threat of genuine famine that is claiming the lives of many refugees from the war in Sudan.”

She urged experts and the international media to witness the situation firsthand.

Reports indicate that Israel is in preliminary discussions with South Sudan regarding the potential relocation of displaced Palestinians from Gaza. The talks have raised concerns among humanitarian organisations given South Sudan’s fragile conditions.

Haskel’s programme in Juba will focus on expanding cooperation in health, education, technology, agriculture and energy.

Discussions will also cover civil and security development, regional collaboration and the scope for Israeli humanitarian aid to address the challenges arising from conflict in neighbouring Sudan.

She will visit a trauma centre in Juba established with Israeli support, underlining ongoing humanitarian initiatives.

“I am proud of the Israeli initiatives helping this young nation in health, agriculture, energy and food. I thank the government of South Sudan for its support of Israel,” Haskel said.

Israeli Support Initiatives in South Sudan