The Office of the President continues to drive the national agenda under the leadership of H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit. This latest engagement reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to advancing South Sudan’s developmental and peace objectives as the nation prepares for its upcoming democratic transition.

MOSCOW, October 28, 2026 — His Excellency President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Wednesday joined fellow African leaders at the opening of the Third Russia–Africa Summit in Moscow, as leaders gathered to strengthen cooperation in trade, energy, technology, peace and development. The two-day summit, running from October 28 to 29, provides a platform to deepen diplomatic relations and advance shared economic priorities.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Africa was playing an increasingly important role in shaping a multipolar international order. He reaffirmed Russia’s support for African efforts to promote peace, stability and prosperity, calling for international relations grounded in sovereignty, mutual respect and the principles of the United Nations Charter.

African Union Chairperson and President of Burundi Évariste Ndayishimiye called for deeper dialogue and stronger economic ties between Africa and Russia to address contemporary challenges. Highlighting the longstanding relationship between the two sides, he urged Russian companies to expand investment, particularly in energy, and stressed that partnerships should respond to African peoples’ aspirations for development, peace and prosperity.

Discussions also focused on strengthening economic and financial independence, including greater use of national currencies in trade settlements. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov described the pursuit of economic, energy and financial sovereignty as a continuation of Africa’s struggle for political independence, while highlighting Russia’s expanding diplomatic presence across the continent.

Energy, technological cooperation and food security featured prominently in the opening discussions. Russia outlined opportunities in nuclear and hydroelectric power, advanced technology, artificial intelligence, digital healthcare and cybersecurity, while reaffirming its commitment to supplying grain and fertilizers to African countries through commercial agreements and assistance.

President Kiir is accompanied by the caretaker Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Cecilia Adut Manyok.

His participation places South Sudan among African nations engaging with Russia on opportunities to strengthen bilateral relations and advance cooperation in support of national and continental development priorities.

— Analysis and additional reporting by Juba Global News Network.