U.S. delegates have called for peace and stability as a prerequisite for investment in South Sudan during a meeting with the National Minister of Trade and Industry, Atong Kuol Manyang.
The delegation led by H.E. Michael J. Adler, the U.S. Ambassador to South Sudan made the call during a meeting on Monday in Juba aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and advancing economic reforms.
Ambassador Adler emphasized that a secure and peaceful environment remains essential for U.S. businesses seeking to invest and operate in the country.
The discussions, according to the Ministry of Trade’s Facebook page, focused on deepening economic cooperation between South Sudan and the United States, with particular attention on improving the business climate to attract foreign investment.
The U.S. delegation also raised concerns over the security of humanitarian assets, citing recent incidents in Jonglei State in which U.S. vehicles were looted and destroyed.
The delegation underscored the importance of effective management of national revenues to ensure the timely payment of civil servants.
In response, Minister Atong welcomed the delegation and expressed appreciation for the United States’ continued engagement.
She acknowledged the damage to U.S. humanitarian assistance and assured the delegation that the government is taking steps to improve security conditions across the country.
Minister Atong also outlined the Ministry’s plans to diversify the economy by reducing reliance on oil, support Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, and expand financial inclusion through improved access to financial services and institutional capacity building.