UAE President Discusses Sudan Peace Efforts with Army Chief

Diplomatic Engagement Amidst Conflict

CAIRO, July 19 (Reuters) – The President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the head of Sudan’s army have engaged in significant discussions regarding an offer from Ethiopia’s leader to mediate the ongoing 15-month-old war in Sudan, diplomatic sources revealed. This marks the first public interaction between the two leaders since the Sudanese army publicly criticized the UAE for allegedly supporting its rival, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Despite the UAE’s denial, U.N. experts have found these allegations credible, which were discussed extensively during a heated U.N. Security Council session in June.

Commitment to Peaceful Solutions

Emirati state news agency WAM reported on Thursday that during the call, UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan emphasized the UAE’s commitment to supporting all solutions and initiatives aimed at de-escalating the conflict and resolving the crisis in Sudan. This call has been viewed as overdue by some in Sudan, especially considering the critical nature of the ongoing conflict. However, hawkish Islamists, a significant support base for the Sudanese army, remain skeptical of the UAE’s role and have rejected various mediation efforts.

Sudanese Army’s Stance

In a statement released early on Friday, the Sudanese army highlighted that Sudanese army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan had urged Sheikh Mohammed, known as MbZ, to cease his backing for the RSF, which he accused of “killing Sudanese, destroying their country, and displacing them.” According to Sudanese diplomatic sources, the conversation between Burhan and MbZ also involved discussing a mediation proposal by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who visited Sudan earlier this month. Ahmed’s proposal aims to mediate an end to the conflict, which erupted in April 2023 over plans for a political transition.

Challenges in Mediation Efforts

Multiple mediation efforts have so far failed to halt the conflict, which has left half of Sudan’s population facing crisis-level hunger and forced about one-fifth from their homes. While accurate data on casualties is unavailable, death toll estimates run into the tens of thousands. The UAE, maintaining strong relations with most of Sudan’s neighbors, including the army’s primary backer Egypt, is expected to play a pivotal role in resolving the war, according to analysts and diplomats.

Impact of the UAE’s Involvement

The involvement of the UAE in Sudan has been a contentious issue, with some Sudanese factions viewing Emirati support as a double-edged sword. While the UAE’s financial and logistical aid could potentially stabilize the situation, it also risks deepening divisions and prolonging the conflict if not managed carefully. The call between Sheikh Mohammed and General Burhan signifies a crucial diplomatic move, highlighting the UAE’s potential influence in the region and its commitment to engaging in conflict resolution.

International Pressure for Resolution

This development comes amidst increasing international pressure for a resolution to the Sudanese conflict, which has devastated the country and caused immense human suffering. The Ethiopian Prime Minister’s mediation offer is one of several attempts by regional powers to broker peace in Sudan. However, the complex dynamics and multiple factions involved in the conflict have made these efforts challenging. The involvement of international actors like the UAE could provide the necessary leverage to bring warring parties to the negotiating table.

Humanitarian Crisis and Hope for Peace

As the situation in Sudan remains precarious, the international community closely monitors these diplomatic engagements, hoping for a breakthrough that could lead to lasting peace and stability in the region. The UAE’s active role in these efforts underscores its strategic interest in the Horn of Africa and its broader ambitions in regional diplomacy and conflict resolution.

The conflict in Sudan has resulted in severe humanitarian crises, with millions displaced and widespread destruction. The international community, including organizations such as the United Nations and various non-governmental organizations, has been actively involved in providing humanitarian aid. However, without a political resolution, these efforts can only offer temporary relief.

Future Prospects

The call between Sheikh Mohammed and General Burhan represents a crucial step towards addressing the conflict. The UAE’s diplomatic engagement signifies its willingness to use its influence to facilitate peace talks and negotiations. Given its strategic relationships in the region, the UAE could serve as a bridge between conflicting parties, fostering dialogue and understanding.

The recent discussions between the UAE President and Sudan’s army chief are a critical move towards addressing the ongoing conflict in Sudan. With continued diplomatic efforts and support from international and regional players, there is hope for a resolution that can bring peace and stability to the war-torn nation. The involvement of the UAE, along with other regional powers, is essential in creating a conducive environment for peace talks and ensuring a sustainable resolution to the conflict.