Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has offered to mediate tensions between Sudan and the UAE following a call with Sudan’s military leader, Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan. This comes after Erdogan successfully brokered a deal between Ethiopia and Somalia. Tensions have escalated in Sudan due to allegations against the UAE supporting rival forces. Sudan faces a dire humanitarian crisis resulting from ongoing conflicts, necessitating international diplomatic efforts.
On Friday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan communicated with Sudan’s military leader, Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, extending Turkey’s willingness to mediate in resolving the tensions between Sudan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This offer follows Erdogan’s recent diplomatic success in brokering a deal aimed at resolving a dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia regarding territorial and sovereignty concerns. President Erdogan emphasized Turkey’s dedication to fostering peace, stability, and sovereignty in Sudan, as well as preventing any external interference in the nation’s affairs.
The existing tensions between Sudan and the UAE stem from allegations that the UAE is supplying arms to rival militia groups in Sudan, accusations that the UAE refutes, while asserting that Sudan is unwilling to engage in peaceful negotiations. Since the eruption of conflict in mid-April 2023, sparked by escalating tensions between military and paramilitary factions, Sudan finds itself in a critical humanitarian situation, with millions displaced from their homes.
Erdogan’s proactive role in international mediation illustrates Turkey’s ambitions to establish itself as a key mediator in regional conflicts. Earlier in the week, he met with leaders from Ethiopia and Somalia, culminating in a joint declaration aimed at enhancing mutual understanding and recognizing specific territorial concerns. These diplomatic efforts underscore Turkey’s commitment to regional stability amidst increasing geopolitical tensions.
The context of this diplomatic outreach involves a backdrop of rising tensions in Sudan, instigated by a civil conflict that erupted in April 2023 between the ruling military and paramilitary forces. This conflict led to severe humanitarian consequences, with over 13 million individuals displaced. Additionally, there is a contentious relationship between Sudan and the UAE, with accusations of weapons support to rival factions. President Erdogan’s offer to mediate aligns with Turkey’s broader strategy of asserting influence in the Horn of Africa and the Middle East through diplomatic initiatives.
In summary, President Erdogan’s mediation offer to Sudan represents a strategic diplomatic move as Turkey seeks to enhance its role in stabilizing regional conflicts. The complexities of Sudan’s internal strife, coupled with the accusations directed towards the UAE, highlight the intricate landscape of Middle Eastern politics. Erdogan’s recent successful negotiations between Ethiopia and Somalia further bolster Turkey’s position as a mediator, reflecting its commitment to regional peace and stability.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
