Sudan welcomes Turkish mediation with UAE, seeks economic ties

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Sudan’s army chief, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, has welcomed Turkey’s offer to mediate in the ongoing 20-month conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssef announced.

The proposal from Turkey was initially discussed in a December phone call between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Burhan, with Erdogan expressing Turkey’s readiness to help establish "peace and stability" in Sudan.

At a meeting in Port Sudan on Saturday, Burhan conveyed Sudan’s acceptance of Turkey's peace initiative to Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Burhanettin Duran. "Sudan needs brothers and friends like Turkey," Youssef said, emphasizing the urgency of resolving the crisis.

The UAE, a neighboring country and key regional player, has also expressed its support for Turkey’s diplomatic efforts. In a statement, the UAE’s foreign ministry affirmed its readiness to collaborate with Turkey and other stakeholders to bring peace to Sudan.

The Sudanese government has accused the RSF of launching UAE-assembled drones, allegations that the UAE has denied. The Gulf nation reiterated its commitment to non-interference and its willingness to assist in resolving the crisis.

Turkey’s Deputy Foreign Minister Duran highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in peace efforts, stating that Turkey would work to mobilize actors like the UAE to overcome obstacles to ending the conflict.

The war in Sudan has caused immense suffering, with tens of thousands killed, over 12 million displaced, and the nation teetering on the brink of famine. Analysts warn that external involvement risks further prolonging the crisis, making coordinated peace efforts critical.