WASHINGTON, July 9 (MENA) - The US voiced desire to strengthen bilateral relations with South Sudan in a way that would help serve interests of both peoples.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said - in a statement published by the US Department of State Wednesday - the US extends its congratulations to the people of South Sudan on the occasion of Independence Day.

According to the statement, Rubio affirmed his country’s commitment to continue cooperating with Juba to achieve a more peaceful and prosperous future.

He added that the bonds of friendship between the two countries date back to before South Sudan’s independence in 2011, the statement said. (MENA)

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