Russian companies show interest in South Sudan - Lavrov

MOSCOW, May 26 (Itar-Tass) - Stabilisation in South Sudan is indispensable to expand trade and economic relations between the two countries, Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said. “We hope to discuss the state of and prospects for relations,” Lavrov said at talks with South Sudanese counterpart Barnaba Benjamin on Monday. “We’re satisfied with the level of political dialogue and cooperation within the U.N. where both countries have common positions,” he said. “On the basis of close partnership we seek to intensify trade, economic and investment relations,” Lavrov said. Russian companies show interest in South Sudan and some of them have started implementing projects there, he said. “We hope that your visit and meetings in the Russian Chamber of Commerce and Industry will allow us to study possibilities for expanding this cooperation,” Lavrov said. He called for continuing efforts to reach stabilisation in South Sudan. “We seek to exchange views on this issue,” he said. For his part, the South Sudanese minister said, “We thank your government for support within the U.N. and for your aid to helping us overcome the crisis.” “As the saying runs, a friend in need is a friend indeed,” he said. He expressed hope that the visit would promote the political dialogue and help attract investments. Learn more on itar-tass.com