 |
| Countries recognising South Sudan |
Just as South Sudan seceded from Sudan by popular referendum, referendums for secession are either agreed in principle or are under consideration in some regions of Sudan bordering on South Sudan, including South Kordofan and Blue Nile states.
Since the day of independence, relations with Sudan are still under negotiation. Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir first announced, in January 2011, that dual citizenship in the North and the South would be allowed, but upon the independence of South Sudan he retracted the offer. He has also suggested an EU-style confederation.
South Sudan is a member state of the United Nations. The country is not yet a member of the African Union, but membership is expected soon. South Sudan plans to join the Commonwealth of Nations, the East African Community, the International Monetary Fund, and the World Bank. Full membership in the Arab League has also been assured, should the country's government choose to seek it, though it could also opt for observer status.
Israel immediately recognized South Sudan as an independent country. Israel is host to thousands of refugees from South Sudan, who are now ready to return to their native country.
Individual states
Israel
Relations between the two states were officially commenced with Israel's recognition of South Sudan a day after its independence, and South Sudan announcing its intention to establish full diplomatic relations the following week. This is considered a significant boon to Israel, as it did not have official diplomatic relations with Sudan. Economic ties show the most potential; however the political prospect of Israel gaining recognition from another country was important, as Sudan does not recognised Israeli sovereignty.
Sudan
Official diplomatic relations commenced on 9 July, the day of South Sudan independence when Sudan became the first state to recognise South Sudanese independence. Although cultural and economic relations predate independence and even the civil war between the two entities.
Uganda
Prior to independence relations between the two states were fostered through cultural contacts such as the presence of South Sudanese students in Uganda. As independence approaches the two states started to enhance their economic ties. However, the Lord's Resistance Army's presence in South Sudan was a stumbling block.
