Sudan's Al-Burhan Engages in Key Meetings with US Officials to Address Relations
During his participation in the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Sudan's Chairman of the Sovereignty Council, Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, held crucial meetings with top US officials. According to Sudanese Foreign Minister Hussein Awad, these discussions aimed to correct what he described as 'crooked issues' in US-Sudan relations, reaching a 'high understanding' between the two nations.
Al-Burhan's meetings involved three significant American departments: the State Department, the National Security Council, and the US Agency for International Development (USAID). The discussions focused on clarifying 'distorted visions' from the US administration, with an emphasis on maintaining an ongoing dialogue to address the existing gaps in bilateral relations. Awad expressed optimism that these meetings could lay the groundwork for a more active American role in resolving the ongoing Sudanese crisis.
Addressing Humanitarian Concerns and Miscommunication
The Sudanese Foreign Minister highlighted the importance of the US correctly interpreting the humanitarian situation in Sudan. He criticized many foreign circles, including the US, for relying on 'suspicious and unestablished sources' for their information. Awad stressed the moral responsibility of the United States, as a leading supporter of global relief efforts, to accurately assess the flow of aid and ensure it reaches those in need, particularly amid the ongoing conflict.
Awad called for an end to the exploitation of humanitarian aid by the Rapid Support Forces militia and urged the US to facilitate aid distribution, particularly as it is often labeled under the United Nations' auspices. He stated, 'Now the ball is in the American court,' indicating that the future of US-Sudan relations hinges on how the US responds to these pressing issues.
The Importance of Continued Engagement
Former Chargé d'Affaires at the Sudanese Embassy in Washington, Ambassador Moawia Osman Khalid, echoed Awad's sentiments, noting the significance of the meetings with the three American departments. He emphasized that these entities play a pivotal role in shaping US policy toward Sudan, especially as the US approaches its presidential elections.
Ambassador Khalid acknowledged the Sudanese government's shared desire with the international community to halt the ongoing conflict but raised concerns about the continued external support for rebel militias. He pointed out that the current circumstances, including the militia's siege on major cities, complicate efforts to achieve peace and humanitarian access. The meetings with US officials are seen as a critical step in navigating these challenges and fostering a more constructive relationship between Sudan and the United States.
