Sudanese Foreign Minister Calls for Dialogue to End Conflict
In a recent interview with Al Jazeera Mubasher, Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssef emphasized the urgent need for a "Sudanese-Sudanese dialogue" aimed at uniting all political forces to end the ongoing war in the country. He reiterated Khartoum's commitment to engaging with the new administration of US President-elect Donald Trump to seek solutions to the Sudanese crisis, highlighting the importance of internal consensus among Sudanese citizens during this critical period.
Youssef articulated that the conflict with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) is a battle imposed upon the Sudanese army, rejecting any notion of international intervention in the crisis. He stated, "We will not accept any political or military future for the Rapid Support Forces in the country," stressing the need for the RSF to adhere to the outcomes of the Jeddah platform aimed at resolving the conflict. Furthermore, he called for international support to halt the supply of weapons to the RSF, which he accused of invading various cities and villages in Sudan.
Sudan's Stance on International Relations and Military Presence
The Foreign Minister also addressed allegations regarding Chad's involvement in financing the RSF, asserting that there is substantial evidence of Chad's support for the militia. Despite these tensions, Youssef expressed a desire to maintain positive relations with Chad, urging them to cease funding the RSF.
In his remarks about potential foreign military presence, Youssef clarified that while Sudan currently has no foreign military bases, the establishment of such bases by countries like Russia or the US could be acceptable if they align with Sudan's sovereignty and interests. He also noted that the Sudanese army has been engaged in conflict since April 2023, resulting in over 20,000 fatalities and displacing approximately 13 million people, according to UN estimates.
The Sudanese minister's comments come amid increasing international calls for an end to hostilities, as the humanitarian situation deteriorates, pushing millions towards famine. Youssef's participation in the upcoming Arab Summit in Riyadh underscores Sudan's commitment to regional cooperation, particularly in support of the Palestinian cause.
