Juba(Mogadishu24)-Djibouti has proposed an alternative port for South Sudan’s oil exports, citing the risks of relying on a single transit route through Sudan, which has been disrupted due to ongoing conflict.

Djibouti’s Foreign Minister Mahamoud Youssouf delivered the offer during a meeting with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir on Wednesday in Juba.

Youssouf highlighted the potential benefits of creating a new oil corridor that would connect South Sudan through Ethiopia to Djibouti, enhancing regional economic integration. He also expressed Djibouti’s support for lifting sanctions on South Sudan to encourage economic development.

South Sudan’s Foreign Minister Ramadan Mohamed Goc confirmed receiving a special message from Djibouti’s President Ismail Omer Guelleh, reaffirming Djibouti’s commitment to regional peace and stability.

Currently, South Sudan relies on a pipeline through Sudan to export its oil, but the ongoing conflict in Sudan has disrupted these flows. Djibouti’s offer provides South Sudan an opportunity to diversify its export routes and reduce dependence on Sudan.

In addition to the proposal, Youssouf is in South Sudan seeking support for Djibouti’s bid for the African Union Commission chairperson seat, underscoring Djibouti’s strategic role as a hub for East Africa.