Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed hosts President Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan at National Palace

Addis Ababa, April 24, 2026 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed received the President of the Republic of South Sudan, Salva Kiir Mayardit, at the National Palace this afternoon, as the South Sudanese leader begins a two-day official visit to Ethiopia.

The visit comes within the framework of reinforcing the longstanding bilateral relations between the two neighbouring countries. High-level discussions between the two leaders are expected to focus on advancing areas of mutual cooperation and shared strategic interests.

Welcoming President Kiir, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed described the visit as a reflection of the “strong and enduring ties” between Ethiopia and South Sudan.

“I welcome Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan, on his two-day official visit to Ethiopia. This visit underscores the strong and enduring ties between our two nations. I look forward to productive discussions that will further strengthen our cooperation and mutual interests,” the Prime Minister said in a social media post prior to their bilateral discussions.

The talks are expected to further consolidate bilateral engagement between Ethiopia and South Sudan across multiple sectors of cooperation.