Sudan’s Army Chief has accepted a Turkish offer to mediate in the ongoing conflict with paramilitary rivals. Turkish President Erdogan proposed to assist in establishing peace during a recent phone call. The Sudanese leadership has welcomed this initiative, highlighting the need for regional cooperation. The UAE has also expressed support for diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis.
The Chief of Sudan’s Army has expressed openness to a Turkish initiative aimed at resolving the ongoing 20-month conflict between his forces and rival paramilitary groups. This was confirmed by Ali Youssef, the Sudanese foreign minister, who stated that in early December, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan contacted Army Chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan to offer assistance in establishing “peace and stability” in Sudan. During a recent meeting in Port Sudan, Burhan communicated the Sudanese leadership’s support for Turkey’s involvement.
Foreign Minister Youssef emphasized that Sudan values the support from nations like Turkey, asserting that such initiatives could facilitate genuine peace. Erdogan’s offer extends beyond Sudan, indicating Turkey’s willingness to mediate disputes involving Sudan and the UAE, thereby limiting external influences within the region. The Sudanese government has accused the UAE of backing the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), an allegation that the UAE vehemently denies. Additionally, US lawmakers have been critical of the UAE’s actions, although the UAE has committed to cooperating with Turkey’s diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis.
Turkey’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Burhanettin Duran, emphasized the need for a collaborative approach in the peace process, indicating Turkey’s readiness to unite regional actors towards resolving the conflict. The UAE has publicly endorsed Turkey’s diplomatic endeavors, assuring full cooperation to end the hostilities in Sudan and seeking comprehensive solutions to the crisis. Meanwhile, the conflict, primarily between Burhan and RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, has resulted in tremendous loss of life and displacement, with millions facing dire humanitarian conditions.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan between the armed forces, led by Chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the paramilitary forces known as the Rapid Support Forces, has escalated dramatically over the past 20 months. The conflict has led to the deaths of tens of thousands and displaced around 12 million individuals, pushing the nation toward famine. The geopolitical dynamics are further complicated by regional actors such as Turkey and the UAE, each seeking to exert influence and resolve the crisis through diplomacy and intervention, particularly amidst accusations regarding the involvement of the UAE with the RSF.
In conclusion, Sudan’s Army Chief has welcomed Turkey’s proposal for mediation in the prolonged conflict, expressing a desire for peace supported by regional collaboration. The involvement of Turkey, alongside the backing of the UAE for diplomatic efforts, may pave the way for a resolution. However, ongoing accusations and geopolitical tensions highlight the complexities involved in achieving lasting peace. The humanity of millions caught in this conflict remains at the forefront as negotiations unfold.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
