China, South Sudan Hold Talks on Consular Protection

JUBA) – The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in South Sudan convened a “Tripartite Mechanism Meeting” on Thursday, 26 June 2025, focusing on consular protection and practical cooperation between China and South Sudan.

The event brought together more than 50 participants from South Sudanese government agencies, Chinese enterprises and the local Chinese community in Juba.

Chinese Ambassador Ma Qiang attended the meeting and delivered opening remarks. He called for strengthened coordination between the Chinese Embassy, South Sudanese authorities and the Chinese business and community representatives to ensure the safety and wellbeing of Chinese nationals in the country.

The meeting was attended by representatives from South Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ministry of Trade and Industry, National Police Service, National Security Service, Directorate of Civil Registry, Nationality, Passports and Immigration and Juba City Council. Also present were Chinese business operators and members of the expatriate community.

Participants discussed ways to improve consular services and address the pressing needs and safety concerns of the Chinese community in South Sudan. Topics ranged from emergency support to administrative coordination and public safety. The discussions also covered the legal and immigration challenges faced by Chinese nationals residing or working in South Sudan.

The Chinese side emphasised the value of using the “Tripartite Meeting Mechanism” as a platform to improve mutual understanding and to jointly address cross-border administrative, legal and safety concerns. The South Sudanese officials reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the rights of all foreign nationals and enhancing diplomatic cooperation with China.

Participants proposed strengthening regular information sharing, establishing communication focal points and expanding practical personnel exchanges and training programmes.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to use the tripartite mechanism to maintain strong coordination, support the safety of Chinese nationals and advance the longstanding friendship between China and South Sudan.

This diplomatic engagement comes at a time when South Sudan is trying to attract foreign investment, particularly in the infrastructure, construction, and energy sectors where Chinese enterprises have been active.

The Chinese Embassy in Juba is located on Independence Road and can be contacted at chinaemb_ss@mfa.gov.cn for consular inquiries.