By Philip Buda Ladu
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of South Sudan announced, Tuesday, April 22, 2025, that it is actively working to strengthen its relationship with the United States amidst recent tensions.
In a press statement, the Ministry revealed that the Amb. Monday Semaya Kumba, Minister of Foreign Affairs, has formally communicated with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, reaffirming the “strong and enduring bilateral relations” between the two nations.
Further signalling a commitment to improved ties, the Ministry announced Minister Kumba’s plans for an official bilateral visit to the United States.
The intended discussions with Secretary Rubio will focus on “matters of mutual interest and cooperation,” underscoring the South Sudanese government’s desire to bolster diplomatic, political, and economic links with the U.S.
This move comes shortly after a period of strained relations, highlighted by the U.S. State Department’s decision earlier this month to revoke all existing visas and suspend the issuance of new visas for South Sudanese passport holders.
That decision was a direct response to South Sudan’s initial reluctance to accept the return of its citizens being deported from the U.S.
Despite the existing visa restrictions, the Ministry expressed its “sincere appreciation” to the U.S. government and its Embassy in Juba for their cooperation in issuing entry visas to a South Sudanese delegation.
This delegation, led by the Minister of Finance and Planning, Hon. Dr. Marial Dongrin Ater, is scheduled to participate in the 2025 Annual Spring Meetings organized by the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund in Washington, D.C., and undertake other engagements aimed at benefiting both countries.
The statement also specifically thanked His Excellency Michael J. Adler, the United States’ Ambassador to South Sudan, for his “pivotal role” in coordinating the issuance of these visas, particularly in light of the existing travel restrictions on South Sudanese nationals.”
Furthermore, the Ministry lauded Ambassador Adler’s “continued efforts in enhancing the already existing cordial bilateral relations” between the two countries.
The foreign ministry’s release indicates a clear effort by the South Sudanese government to de-escalate tensions and actively engage with the United States to restore and strengthen its diplomatic ties.
The planned visit by Minister Kumba will be a significant step in this direction, offering an opportunity for direct dialogue on the issues that have recently challenged the relationship.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to “deepening engagement with the international community and strengthening South Sudan’s diplomatic relations globally.”