EU expressed deep concerns about the recent escalation of violence, particularly the events in Upper Nile, and emphasized on the need for peaceful resolutions.
By Aguok Chok
The European Union Ambassador to South Sudan, Timo Olkkonen has urged South Sudanese leaders to embrace dialogue and avoid any escalation of conflict in the country.
Ambassador Olkkonen made the call during his meeting with the Vice President for Service Delivery Cluster, Josephine Lagu on Wednesday in which they discussed key issues affecting the nation.
“This was a courtesy call to congratulate her on her nomination and go through some of our common agendas,” Olkkonen stated.
He said the EU was deeply concerned about the recent escalation of violence, particularly the events in Upper Nile, and emphasized on the need for peaceful resolutions.
“From the European Union side, we are really calling for calm and dialogue,” he said. “At all levels, there should be contact, discussion, and resolution of any differences, including the interpretation of past events.”
Olkkonen stressed that South Sudanese leaders must ensure the situation does not escalate further.
“There should be proper dialogue and consultation on the way forward, and the avoidance of unilateral action or strong language that could aggravate the situation further,” he added.
The discussions also focused on Vice-President Lagu’s role as head of the services cluster. Olkkonen highlighted the EU’s continued support in key sectors, particularly agriculture, governance, health, and education.
“The European Union is one of the major donors in terms of development cooperation,” he noted.
He revealed that the EU has recently allocated an additional 96 million euros to South Sudan, following an earlier 200 million euros under the seven-year multi-annual program.
“The priority areas will remain the same—health and education as part of the services,” he confirmed.
Olkkonen urged the South Sudanese government to contribute more financial resources to these sectors. “We discussed the need to mobilize government resources and use them effectively,” he said.
This led to talks on transparency in public finance management, which he described as “a key issue in ensuring resources are available to provide services to South Sudanese.”
Beyond development aid, the European Union has played a significant role in South Sudan’s peace process. It has been a key supporter of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement, providing diplomatic backing, technical expertise, and financial support for peace initiatives. The EU has funded peacebuilding programs, reconciliation efforts, and humanitarian assistance to conflict-affected communities.
Additionally, the EU has supported regional mediation efforts led by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and has worked closely with international partners to encourage dialogue among South Sudan’s political and community leaders. Through its funding and engagement, the EU continues to push for stability, democratic governance, and lasting peace in the country.
The EU remains committed to supporting South Sudan but continues to call for dialogue and peaceful engagement among its leaders to prevent further instability.
Direct dialogue, only glue for 2018 peace deal
Meanwhile, in a high-level meeting between the First Vice President, Dr. Riek Machar and Norwegian Ambassador to South Sudan, H.E. Roar Haugsdal, where the two leaders discussed the status of the 2018 Revitalised Peace Agreement as well as obstacles, both leaders emphasized on the need for urgent measures to accelerate the peace process and ensure stability in the country.
Ambassador Haugsdal, addressing the media afterward, stressed on the importance of direct dialogue between the agreement’s key principals to prevent setbacks and strengthen peace efforts.
“We urge all parties to engage in open communication to consolidate peace and de-escalate tensions in the country,” Ambassador Haugsdal stated.
The call for renewed dialogue comes at a critical time, as delays in implementing key provisions of the agreement such as security arrangements, elections, and institutional reforms continue to fuel uncertainty.
Experts warn that without concrete steps, the country risks missing the opportunity for a lasting transition.
For South Sudanese citizens, the successful implementation of the peace deal means greater security, improved economic conditions, and a stable political environment ahead of the long-anticipated elections.