MOSCOW, September 9 /TASS/. Russia’s efforts to normalize relations between South Sudan and Sudan are of strategic importance for peace and stability, Benjamin Barnaba, the foreign minister of South Sudan, said after meeting Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

"We discussed our bilateral relations and prospects for their development in the sphere of politics and economy. We have many vital issues to discuss. It was a very important meeting. We thanked Russia for supporting our stance at the UN Security Council," Barnaba stressed.

He voiced support for Russia’s efforts to establish normal relations between Sudan and South Sudan.

Moscow is playing an important role, which is of strategic importance for peace and stability, Barnaba stressed.

Talking about relations with Khartoum, the capital of Sudan, Barnaba said that South Sudan had struck a cooperation agreement with its northern neighbour, with which it had some border problems.

We are going to discuss this problem with Russia’s help and see how make progress, Barnaba stressed.