German new envoy pledges support for security, stability in South Sudan

JUBA — Germany’s newly appointed envoy to South Sudan has pledged to support efforts aimed at strengthening security, peace, and stability in the country.

Ambassador Sebastian Brökelmann made the commitment on Monday in Juba while presenting his credentials to President Salva Kiir Mayardit.

“The focus of German engagement in South Sudan will continuously be security and stability in the country, as well as humanitarian and development assistance for the well-being of the South Sudanese people,” Sebastian said in a statement extended to Sudans Post on Monday.

Sebastian said Germany’s political priority remains supporting the implementation of the 2018 peace agreement.

“This requires an authentic interparty dialogue amongst all signatories, entities, and persons of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, as well as other stakeholders including civil society,” he said.

He urged the government to pursue judicial reforms as part of efforts to establish a permanent constitution, advance security sector reforms to unify the military forces, and create a conducive environment for peace and stability.

“Environment as a prerequisite for the people in South Sudan to exercise their democratic rights and economic reforms to bolster public finance management, including the fight against corruption.”

Sebastian pledged Germany’s continued support to the people of South Sudan in their pursuit of sustainable peace, security, democracy, the rule of law, and prosperity.

“Germany will also continue contributing to the important work of UNMISS in the country to protect civilians and to enable secure aid deliveries to those in need.”

The new envoy commended President Salva Kiir and the people of South Sudan for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to him.

“We look at a long and fruitful history of bilateral relations since South Sudan’s independence. It is my pleasure and honor to serve as the new German ambassador to further foster relations between our countries.”

Brökelmann, the new head of the German Embassy in Juba, is a career German diplomat with experience in diplomatic missions in Europe and the Middle East.

He succeeds Gregory Bledjian, who previously served as Germany’s envoy to South Sudan.

Brökelmann previously served as a First Secretary at the German Embassy in Abu Dhabi, where he was involved in matters including energy affairs.

In 2010, he served as a First Secretary at the German Embassy in Croatia.