Foreign Affairs Minister Dr James Pitia Morgan meets with the US, German, Japanese and Norwegian ambassadors in Juba. File photo.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has summoned the ambassadors of Germany, Japan, Norway and the United States over what the ministry called an “inappropriate and divisive” joint statement issued on Wednesday.

In a statement published by the ministry, Minister Dr James Pitia Morgan expressed concern over the statement, which he said was inappropriate and divisive.

The summons followed a joint statement by the four diplomats calling for the immediate start of what they described as authentic inter-party dialogue.

The diplomats made the call after meeting Vice President for Gender and Youth Cluster Rebecca Nyandeng de Mabior on Tuesday.

In their statement, the chiefs of mission also called on South Sudan’s leaders to use public revenue to provide essential services and strengthen accountability.

However, Minister Morgan said the government considers the statement particularly concerning as the country prepares for elections.

“The Minister conveyed the Government’s concern that the content of the coordinated statement was inappropriate and divisive, particularly at a time when the country is preparing for elections,” read in part the statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Community.

“The Minister underscored the importance of national ownership and respect for established diplomatic norms, including the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of the receiving State. He further stressed that sensitive political matters should be addressed through appropriate diplomatic channels,” the state further stated.

He stressed the importance of national ownership and respect for diplomatic norms, including non-interference in the internal affairs of South Sudan.

Dr Morgan said sensitive political matters should be addressed through appropriate diplomatic channels.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to implementing the Revitalized Peace Agreement and preparing for the elections.

The minister called on all stakeholders, including regional and international partners, to support efforts to maintain a peaceful and conducive environment for the electoral process.

According to the ministry, the four ambassadors were given an opportunity to clarify the basis and intentions of their joint statement.