The new oil shutdown imposed by Khartoum will impact negatively in the economy of South Sudan and Sudan and affect the investors’ trust in the oil sector in both countries.
The Sudanese Government said it would close the pipelines bringing South Sudanese oil to the international market on August 7, accusing Juba of supporting armed opposition.
Oil minister Stephen Dhieu Dau told journalists Friday evening that he was caught by the unfortunate news that Khartoum wanted to shut down the pipelines while he was on a visit to China.
He said the new oil production halt will affect negatively the economies and the oil sector in both countries and the investors’ confidence.
Mr Dhieu said South Sudan was operating a gradual shutdown of oil production to preserve the infrastructure and the environment in case Khartoum goes ahead with its threat.
He added that a Sudanese delegation headed by oil minister Awad Ahmed Al Jaz is expected in Juba soon.