South Sudan Proposes Transfer of Petronas’ Oil Share to Chinese Company in Strategic Talks in Beijing
Juba Global News Network
Beijing China – June 15, 2025
In a move that strengthens economic cooperation between the two countries, the South Sudanese government held high-level discussions in the Chinese capital, Beijing, on June 14, attended by Foreign Minister Mandy Simaya, Undersecretary of Petroleum Deng Lual, and the director of the National Petroleum Company, Ngor Ayouel.
The talks, which included a meeting with the president of the Chinese National Petroleum Corporation, Huo Jizong, focused on enhancing cooperation in the oil sector, including the security of facilities and personnel, and the restructuring of shares in Dar Petroleum following the withdrawal of Malaysia’s Petronas.
South Sudan proposed transferring the 30% share previously owned by Petronas to the Chinese side, raising the Chinese company’s ownership in the project to over 70%. This proposal was welcomed by the Chinese side, which requested greater administrative authority in managing operations.
Additionally, the two sides discussed potential Chinese support for the reconstruction of South Sudan and the development of its infrastructure, as part of expanding the strategic partnership between the two countries.
This meeting marks a significant shift in bilateral relations, as Beijing strengthens its influence in South Sudan’s oil sector, while Juba seeks to attract new investments to drive economic development.
