UN Floor Spotlight on Patience
On Monday in New York, China’s deputy envoy Sun Lei reminded the UN Security Council that South Sudan’s transition, barely a decade old, requires time and steady guidance. His message echoed through a chamber often impatient for quick metrics on peace.
Backing African-Led Mediation
Sun welcomed President Salva Kiir’s renewed pledge to shun war and embraced the African Union’s recent field visit as proof that continental mechanisms are active. “African issues need African solutions,” he stressed, urging outsiders to avoid heavy-handed pressure while respecting Juba’s sovereignty.
Election Preparations Under Scrutiny
The revitalized peace agreement sets elections for late 2024, but logistics, security and a new constitution are still in motion. Beijing praised Juba for opening voter registration centres, yet cautioned that hasty deadlines could jeopardize fragile confidence rebuilt since the 2018 truce.
Keeping Civilians and Infrastructure Safe
China called on all factions to remain calm, uphold the cease-fire, and shield highways, oil fields and clinics from potential spoilers. Observers note that such stability is vital for humanitarian corridors serving 9.4 million South Sudanese facing food insecurity after erratic rains.
Economic Diversification on the Agenda
Beyond politics, Sun appealed for greater financing and technical skills to diversify an economy still reliant on crude exports for 90 percent of revenue. Agriculture, solar energy and regional road projects, he argued, could anchor sustainable growth and reduce sparks for renewed conflict.
Regional Voices Echo the Call
Kenya, Ethiopia and Uganda envoys nodded to Beijing’s stance, saying regional blocs like IGAD are best placed to guide talks on security arrangements and electoral law. A Kenyan diplomat told reporters the Council must “reward progress, not constantly move goalposts”.
What Patience Might Deliver
Analysts caution that patience alone will not solve local grievances, yet agree that measured timelines coupled with accountable institutions could avert relapse into conflict. For now, Sun Lei’s intervention signals a growing chorus calling for steady, African-led stewardship of the world’s youngest nation.