South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile on Monday kicked off a four-day official visit to South Sudan during which he will meet President Salva Kiir Mayardit in his capacity as a special envoy to that country, the presidency has announced.
Mashatile is also expected to “monitor preparations for the national elections, recommit South Africa’s support for the transition in South Sudan and further strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.”
“The visit by Deputy President Mashatile is aimed at taking stock of the latest developments in the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan,” the office said in a statement on Sunday.
The laying of a wreath at the Dr. John Garang Mausoleum and delivering remarks at the South African Police Contingent Medal Parade in South Sudanese capital of Juba have also been scheduled during the visit, according to the presidency.
South Africa has a long-standing relationship with South Sudan which predates its independence in 2011, the presidency said.
Since the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement in 2005, South Africa has been involved in post-conflict reconstruction and development of South Sudan and the wider region.
NM/jn/APA