France, Aug. 1 -- South Sudan has reportedly signalled a willingness to accept more deportees from the United States - in a move that could serve as diplomatic leverage in its tense relationship with Washington.

Officials in Juba have opened the door to receiving more migrants who are being expelled from the US under newly expanded deportation powers, according to a report published this week byPolitico.

Many of the deportees are not of South Sudanese origin.

In return, it reportedly hopes to see a softening of US sanctions and improved economic cooperation.

Last week, South Sudan took in eight deportees, including only one of its own nationals, following a six-week legal dispute in the US.

The others - originating from countries suc...