Eritrean President Afwerki Discusses Sudanese Crisis and Hemeti's Visit
Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki recently shared insights regarding the visit of Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemeti, the commander of Sudan's Rapid Support Forces, which occurred just a month before the outbreak of conflict in Sudan. During a meeting with Sudanese journalists in Asmara, Afwerki emphasized the pivotal role of the Sudanese army, describing it as the backbone of the state and crucial for the nation's reconstruction efforts. He asserted that Sudan is capable of establishing itself as an advanced state in Africa.
Afwerki expressed his reluctance to engage in mediation efforts to resolve the Sudanese crisis, characterizing previous initiatives as ineffective and likening them to
bazaars
that failed to provide a viable solution to the ongoing conflict. He warned that the situation in Sudan poses a risk not only to the country itself but also to the entire region, highlighting the need for Sudan to extricate itself from foreign agendas that aim to destabilize the nation and dismantle its military.
Hemeti's Visit and Agricultural Technology Discussions
During Hemeti's brief visit to Eritrea on March 13, 2023, he reportedly sought support for Sudan's agricultural sector, specifically requesting assistance in importing agricultural technology from Israel. However, Afwerki countered this by noting Sudan's existing agricultural capabilities, referring to the Gezira project as indicative of the country's potential to develop its agricultural sector independently.
Afwerki also addressed the internal political divisions in Sudan, urging the Sudanese people to prioritize unity and to prepare for a post-war phase by establishing a strong front to support the army. He described Darfur as the frontline of the current conflict, warning against the influx of weapons and foreign interference that threaten Sudan's unity.
Regional Stability and Eritrean Refugee Policy
In his remarks, Afwerki rejected the United Nations' call to establish refugee camps for Sudanese fleeing into Eritrea, stating that Sudanese nationals are treated as guests in their own homes. He emphasized the moral duty of Eritreans to assist their neighbors. Furthermore, he called for a collaborative approach among countries in the region, advocating for stability across the Nile Valley, the Horn of Africa, the Red Sea, and the Gulf. He reiterated that Sudan's absence from recent regional meetings does not diminish its presence in alliances aimed at fostering cooperation and stability.
