South Sudan leader in Russia for talks with Putin

South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir is in Moscow for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The visit comes at a time when Russia and Western powers are trying to woo African support in the wake of the invasion of Ukraine.

According to a statement from the president's press unit, Mr Kiir arrived in the Russian capital on Wednesday and was received by Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko Yurevich.

Mr Kiir's office says the meeting with the Russian president on Thursday will discuss prospects for developing bilateral relations in various areas, as well as regional and international issues.

It adds that the visit aims at deepening diplomatic relations and exploring other areas of cooperation on trade, investment opportunities and security.

The statement added that the two leaders will also discuss lifting an arms embargo and targeted sanctions imposed on individuals in South Sudan.

In May, Russia abstained in the UN Security Council vote to renew sanctions imposed on South Sudan, which include asset freezes, travel bans and an arms embargo.

Source: BBC