JUBA, Feb. 24 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations renewed its commitment to South Sudan's bid to end its extended two-year transitional period and pave the way for the country's first democratic elections in 2026.

UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix concluded a four-day visit to South Sudan on Monday, where he met with senior officials, including President Salva Kiir, vice presidents, cabinet ministers, and civil society organizations.

The world's youngest country started the extended transitional period on Saturday amid a host of challenges, Lacroix said at a briefing in Juba, the capital of South Sudan.

In addition to the spillover effects of the conflict in neighboring Sudan, South Sudan is facing a dire economic and humanitarian situation, rising insecurity at the subnational level, and the occurrence of violence in various parts of the country, which are of major concern, he said.

The UN official said the situation in South Sudan is part of simultaneous crises across the world that have led to considerable pressure on the international community when it comes to humanitarian assistance.

He added that the UN is committed to helping South Sudan mobilize the resources needed to support the country's quest for peace, stability, and economic growth. Enditem

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