Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni and his South Sudanese counterpart, Salva Kiir, convened for a closed-door meeting on Thursday to discuss shared interests and border security matters between their two nations.

While the details of the private meeting were not disclosed, the President’s Senior Press Secretary, Sandor Walusimbi, revealed that the discussions revolved around regional issues, border security concerns, and the ongoing conflict in South Sudan.

The leaders also addressed common interests shared by Uganda and South Sudan.

Tensions at the border between the two countries escalated last week when South Sudanese forces allegedly raided over 20 villages in Yumbe District, Uganda, claiming the territory as part of their own. Such cross-border clashes have occurred in the past, with a notable incident in 2020 resulting in casualties on both sides.

Uganda, under President Museveni's leadership, has played a significant role in regional security for over three decades. Museveni has actively worked towards ending the conflict in South Sudan by facilitating talks between Salva Kiir and his rival, Riek Machar.

Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has faced persistent challenges, including armed conflict, natural disasters, food shortages, ethnic violence, and political disputes. Despite having substantial oil reserves, it remains one of the world's poorest nations.

Although the Revitalised Peace Agreement called for elections in South Sudan this year, the ongoing power struggle between Kiir and Machar has hindered progress. The United Nations Security Council imposed an arms embargo on South Sudan in 2018.

In February 2020, South Sudan established the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) as part of the peace agreement provisions. In August 2022, South Sudan extended the transitional government for two more years to prevent a return to war.

To enhance bilateral relations, Uganda and South Sudan signed a Power Sales Agreement in June and an agreement on joint border security management in February 2023. These agreements aim to boost power trade and facilitate socio-economic development in border towns while addressing security concerns and facilitating the free movement of people, goods, and services as per the East African Community protocol.