Sudan and South Sudan Agree on Joint Security and Management of Heglig Oil Field

BREAKING NEWS

Khartoum/Juba — Sudan and South Sudan have announced a new round of high-level talks aimed at strengthening cooperation over the security, operation, and management of the Heglig oil field in Sudan’s West Kordofan State, marking a significant step toward economic coordination between the two neighbors.

In a joint briefing released on Tuesday, officials from both countries confirmed that discussions focused on safeguarding oil infrastructure, improving operational efficiency, and ensuring stable production at the strategically vital oil field. The talks culminated in an agreement to establish a joint economic committee that will oversee coordination related to the oil field’s management and associated economic interests.

The Heglig oil field—known in South Sudan as Panthou—has historically been a source of tension between Khartoum and Juba, particularly following South Sudan’s independence in 2011. Past disputes over borders, control, and oil revenues have led to military confrontations and repeated production shutdowns, dealing heavy blows to both economies.

This latest development reflects a shift toward pragmatic engagement, driven largely by economic realities. Sudan continues to face deep economic strain amid ongoing internal conflict, while South Sudan remains heavily dependent on oil revenues to sustain its fragile economy. Analysts say renewed cooperation over Heglig underscores a shared recognition that stability and dialogue are essential to economic survival.

The newly proposed joint economic committee is expected to serve as a formal mechanism for coordination, potentially reducing disputes and fostering transparency in the management of one of the region’s most critical energy assets. Enhanced security collaboration is also expected to help protect infrastructure and personnel in an area vulnerable to instability.

While it remains to be seen how effectively the agreements will be implemented, the announcement has raised cautious optimism that sustained cooperation over shared resources could ease long-standing tensions and contribute to broader regional stability.

More updates to follow as details emerge.

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