UAE hosts first discussions with chief of conflict-torn Sudan
Date
7/24/2024 8:10:00 AM
(MENAFN) President sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has initiated significant diplomatic efforts aimed at supporting Sudan in resolving its prolonged internal conflict. According to reports from the Emirati news agency WAM, President Al Nahyan committed UAE's support to Sudan during a recent phone call with General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Sudan's de facto leader and army chief.
The discussions mark the first direct talks between the two leaders since the outbreak of intense armed conflict in Sudan in mid-April 2023. The conflict has been characterized by fierce clashes between rival factions, primarily involving the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) under General Burhan and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) led by Mohamed Hamdan Daglo. The humanitarian toll has been severe, with approximately 17,000 fatalities and millions displaced internally, according to United Nations estimates.
Tensions between Abu Dhabi and Khartoum escalated last year when Sudan expelled 15 United Arab Emirates embassy personnel in response to the alleged expulsion of three Sudanese diplomats from Abu Dhabi. Amidst accusations that United Arab Emirates supplied arms to the RSF, the United Arab Emirates government has consistently denied these claims, emphasizing its advocacy for de-escalation, ceasefire, and diplomatic dialogue since the onset of the conflict.
During their recent conversation, President Al Nahyan and General al-Burhan reportedly discussed avenues to strengthen bilateral relations between the United Arab Emirates and Sudan. The dialogue signals a pivotal step towards fostering stability in Sudan and addressing the complex dynamics of the ongoing conflict, reflecting United Arab Emirate's commitment to regional peace and security initiatives.
MENAFN24072024000045015687ID1108477205
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.