First Vice President Dr Riek Machar has said renewed peace initiative between South Sudan and Sudan will be geared towards diversifying economy through opening avenues for trade.

Speaking during the Trade and Investment Fair for the Sudanese Products in Juba on Saturday, Dr Machar said plans are underway to ensure the two countries achieve sustainable development.

He said, ‘‘While Sudan and South Sudan are embarking on peace path, it is important to bring about sustainable development in investment in economic activities such as this Trade and Investment Fair for Sudanese products in south Sudan.’’

Going forward to strengthen the trade and investment sector, the Minister of Investment Dhieu Mathok said the Revitalised Transitional Government of Unity is doing everything to streamline it.

“The entire term of the ministry of Investment will work closely with private sectors and all other stake holders make 2021 a real investment year in the republic of South Sudan,” he said.

This came a day after Sudanese Acting Foreign Minister Omar Qamar al-Din reiterated the commitment between the two countries to improve the trade. Some of the plans include inking trade deals to allow the flourishing of commercial activities.

“We promise that between the two countries, we are going to have all the trade agreements, all the transport and other agreements that will make it easier for you to enjoy the Sudanese products and for your fellow Sudanese in the north to enjoy the products of South Sudan,” he said while addressing the press in Juba.  In 2012, the two countries signed deal for cooperation in oil, trade and security sectors.