South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Simon Deng
The Turkish ambassador to South Sudan, Metin Ergin, praised the enduring and robust bilateral relations between Turkiye and South Sudan on Wednesday.
“We are part of the UN mission, and we are committed to the well-being, safety, security, and prosperity of the South Sudanese people, whom we consider close friends,” Ergin stated at the Turkish embassy while presenting medals to outgoing police officers from the Turkish police contingent of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) during a farewell ceremony.
“I believe we will remain steadfast in our commitment and friendship to South Sudan. Whatever happens, the people of South Sudan will find the Turkish Republic standing by them,” he added.
Lt. Col. Umut Duzerdik, liaison officer for the Joint Operation Centre of UNMISS, who has served in Malakal and Juba, expressed his satisfaction with working alongside the South Sudanese people.
“actually the nature of the work involves danger, it has been a privilege and an honor to work for peace, especially in this hospitable country filled with kind people. We are grateful to the people for hosting us over the past year,” Duzerdik said.
“We hope for peace; it is crucial for people to understand one another. If they can communicate, they can resolve their differences. I would like to return because South Sudan feels like my second country,” he added.
Tansel Arat, the Turkish police contingent commander, announced that the tour of duty for the Turkish police contingent under the UNMISS peacekeeping operation has concluded after one year.
“We serve under the umbrella of UNMISS, dedicated to the South Sudanese people. Our rotation period is complete after one year, and we will see off the current group while a new team arrives,” Arat stated.
“Our mission has been here since 2005, completing 30 years. Our main objectives are to maintain peace and build trust, which are essential. We consistently engage with the community to stay connected,” he concluded.
