Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Djibouti's Foreign Affairs Minister, speaks during a press briefing in Juba on Wednesday, September 18, 2024. — Credit: Sebit Patrick/Eye Radio

Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister has confirmed that the construction of the oil pipeline from South Sudan to Port Djibouti will enhance energy options without disrupting existing pipelines in Sudan.

Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, currently in South Sudan as part of his campaign for the presidency of the African Union Commission, emphasized the importance of the South Sudan to Djibouti pipeline.

During his visit to China earlier this month, President Salva Kiir held discussions with the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) about plans to construct an alternative oil pipeline through Ethiopia to Djibouti, aimed at boosting declining oil production.

He stated that activating this pipeline would serve the best interests of both countries, enhancing their economic collaboration and energy options.

Djibouti’s Foreign Minister refutes claims that the revitalization of an oil pipeline in Sudan will impact the recent agreement to establish a pipeline through Ethiopia to Djibouti.

On Monday 16^th September, Sudanese President Abdel Fatah Al Burhan met with President Kiir over the revitalization of the oil pipeline after months of dysfunction.

Ali said his country is only offering an option that will enable a landlocked country to contemplate the future of its economy.

“What we are offering is an option, and we believe that the Republic of South Sudan needs alternatives. Anything can happen in a single corridor, so as a landlocked country, having multiple options is crucial,” said Ali.

He added, “This is essential thinking for the future of a landlocked nation’s economy. There is no contradiction here. South Sudan currently has a corridor through Kenya and another to Port Sudan, and it can also consider a new corridor from Ethiopia to Djibouti.”

Ali emphasized Djibouti’s commitment, stating, “As the government of Djibouti, we don’t view this as a controversial issue; it’s primarily a matter of financing. Why shouldn’t South Sudan seek funding for additional corridors? Ultimately, we are here to support President Salva’s initiatives.”

This comes days after President Kiir had talks with his Djibouti counterpart during the Forum of China Africa Corporation Summit over the construction of a new oil pipeline through Djibouti.