South Sudan’s new ambassador, Dr. James Okuk has vowed to strengthen the country’s international relations after taking oath on Wednesday.

Dr. Okuk, a prominent political analyst was appointed alongside Achier Deng in a presidential decree in December 2021.

They were sworn-in today by Chief Justice Chan Reec Madut, after more than a year from their appointment.

The oath ceremony was witnessed by President Salva Kiir Mayardiit, Foreign Affairs Minister Mayiik Ayii and Minister of Presidential Affairs, Dr Barnaba Marial Benjamin.

After taking the oath, Dr Okuk and his colleague will now serve in the headquarters until assigned to serve as head or deputy head of mission in the diplomatic field.

Speaking to Eye Radio on Wednesday, Dr Okuk pledged to safeguard political, economic, social and diplomatic interest of the nation.

“We have a lot of core national interests that we have to safeguard even political, economic, social, even environmental or even diplomatic areas,” he told Eye Radio.

“So, this is what we told him (President Kiir) that we will be committed to do what we can in our ability to represent South Sudan in whatever assignment or delegation is given to us and he was happy to hear that.”

“And he gave us full support, a full blessing that we should go after the oath and then do our best to improve the diplomatic conduct of country”.