Museveni, Chinese diplomat discuss South Sudan

The interest of China in the South Sudan conflict resolution is a grand occurrence that has left President Yoweri Museveni excited and glad.

During a meeting with the Xu Jinghu, the Chinese government special representative on African Affairs at State House yesterday, Museveni said he was glad that China has picked interest in the drafting of possible solution to the never-ending conflict in South Sudan.

"Met Xu Jinghu, the Chinese Government Special Representative on African Affairs and her delegation, today at State House, Entebbe. We discussed the situation in South Sudan. Glad China is taking interest in this conflict. It tends to take good direction on African issues," Museveni said.

The recent conflict in South Sudan started in December 2013 when troops royal to President Slava Kiir clashed with those commanded by the then Vice President, Dr. Riek Machar. The war has since gained traction leading to the displacement of over 4, 000 people, who are mainly in Uganda as refugees.

Museveni has blamed ideological disorientation for the conflict in Africa's youngest nation.

"The main problem in South Sudan is ideological. The groups there don't have clear headed leaders to guide the people about their future. They push the pseudo ideology of sectarianism of tribes & yet this is detrimental to the people's wellbeing. Force can't solve the conflict," he said.

Museveni has urged the "warring groups must hold negotiations aimed at two things, holding elections and reforming the security sector."

During the meeting with Xu Jinghu, the President also thanked the Chinese for supporting the infrastructure development of Uganda.

"The Chinese are funding several infrastructure projects on good terms. Trade currently is lopsided in favour of China. Uganda will soon start selling more & once trade is balanced, the two sides will benefit." he said.