The SPLA says it has withdrawn its forces from the border with the Sudan.

The move is in line with security arrangements under the cooperation agreements the two countries signed in 2012.

The agreement requires that South Sudan and Sudan withdraw their forces from the border immediately and unconditionally.

This would be followed by the establishment of Joint Border and Verification mission and Safe Demilitarization of a Buffer zone.

Brig Lul Ruai, army spokesperson, told Eye Radio that the withdrawal is an outcome of recent meetings between officials in the transitional government and their Khartoum counterparts.

“It is significant in itself that it is in [line with the] implementation of the Cooperation Agreement and it was a direct result of the meeting,” Brig Ruai stated.

He added that the withdrawal will reduce tension and allow for full implementation of the agreement, including free movement of people and goods, and trade, among others.

The Khartoum media have also reported the withdrawal, quoting the South Sudanese Defense Minister, Kuol Manyang Juuk.