By Philip Buda Ladu
A newly appointed British and Indian Ambassadors to South Sudan, David Ashley and Anil Nautiyal, respectively presented their credentials to president Salva Kiir Mayardit, on Wednesday.
President Kiir underscored and valued the long-standing strong relationships with both Britain and India.
He further reiterated the government’s firm resolve to strengthen strong and friendly diplomatic relations globally.
During the occasion, Amb. Ashley reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s enduring commitment to the nation amidst significant challenges.
“It is an honor to serve as His Majesty’s Ambassador to South Sudan,” Ambassador Ashley stated in a subsequent press conference at EU Embassy compound, Juba.
“The United Kingdom and South Sudan share historic ties, and the UK has long stood as a steadfast champion of the South Sudanese people,” he added.
Amb. Ashley reiterated to President Kiir the UK’s dedication to supporting peace, development, and humanitarian efforts, assuring that the British Embassy would remain in Juba.
“Our priority is simple; to support peace and development so that the people of South Sudan can fully enjoy the fruits of their hard-won independence,” he said.
Since South Sudan’s independence in 2011, Amb. Ashely noted that the UK has provided $2.2 billion (USD) in assistance, focusing on critical areas such as health, education, peace building, and humanitarian aid.
The UK envoy also highlighted achievements like enabling over one million students to attend school and vaccinating more than 1.5 million children against deadly diseases.
Despite pressures on the UK’s international aid budget, the Ambassador pledged continued humanitarian assistance over the next 12 months, delivering essential food and medical support to vulnerable populations.
However, he stressed that international aid should complement, not replace, the South Sudanese government’s efforts, urging increased allocation of domestic resources to healthcare, education, and humanitarian aid.
Amb. Ashley further acknowledged the severe challenges facing South Sudan, compounded by the conflict in Sudan and climate change.
He expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence, stating, “The UK deeply regrets the serious and repeated violations of the ceasefire since February, including the recent bombing of the MSF hospital in Fangak on 3 May.”
Calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities, Amb. Ashley urged all parties to return to dialogue and implement a ceasefire.
“Peace must be the basis for development,” he asserted. “The world, the region, and certainly the people of South Sudan cannot afford another war here.”
Amb. Ashley also called for the release of all political detainees, including the First Vice-President, Riek Machar.
He reiterated the UK’s support for international efforts led by IGAD, the African Union, and the United Nations to promote peace in the region.
“The UK remains committed to supporting South Sudan,” Ambassador Ashley concluded. “I look forward to learning more and seeing more of this beautiful country.”
Meanwhile, Amb. Anil Nautiyal of India, who also presented his credentials to President Kiir at the same time, expressed readiness to cooperate with the government to strengthen mutual cooperation between New Delhi and Juba.
Both Ambassadors “promised to further bilateral relations and expand cooperation with South Sudan in various fields of mutual interest,” according to the presidential statement.