Ashley made the remarks as he reflected on his nearly two years as British Ambassador to South Sudan ahead of his departure next week.
He said the United Kingdom remains a close and loyal friend to the people of South Sudan and wants to see the country achieve lasting peace and development.
“My remarks today should be seen in that light, as ambassador and representative of a loyal friend whose only interest is to support a peaceful, developed South Sudan as part of a stable, prosperous region,” Ashley said.
The ambassador also highlighted UK-supported programmes during his tenure, particularly in education and humanitarian assistance.
“I’m very proud of the support that we have given during the time that I have been ambassador to the people of this country,” he said.
According to Ashley, the UK supported 230,000 girls and children with disabilities to remain in school last year.
He also said Britain provided emergency food assistance to 1.26 million people and multipurpose cash assistance to 1.2 million people.
Ashley said the assistance demonstrates Britain’s continued commitment to supporting vulnerable communities and contributing to South Sudan’s development.
The ambassador is expected to leave South Sudan next week after nearly two years in office.
