A military jet loaded with several tonnes of medical and pharmaceutical aid took off from an east Cairo airbase for Juba International Airport, Abdel-Hafez said, adding that the aid is part of Egypt’s continuous support for “brotherly and friendly” countries facing adversities and crises.

The aid is also an affirmation of Egypt's leading role in Africa, Abdel-Hafiz noted.

South Sudan has expressed its appreciation for the efforts made by the Egyptian government and people to support their brothers on the continent, stressing that such humanitarian actions contribute to deepening the long-standing historical relations between the two countries, the statement said.

Egypt has sent several medical aid shipments to Arab and African countries including Tunisia, Sudan, South Sudan, Yemen, and others, out of its firm belief in the historical bonds and shared destiny with neighbouring countries and its keenness to maintain their stability and safety.