French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot visited Chad, urging foreign nations to cease assistance to the warring parties in Sudan’s civil war. This conflict has displaced millions, leading to a dire humanitarian crisis. Barrot condemned Russia’s veto of a UN ceasefire resolution and announced additional aid to support humanitarian efforts in Chad.
In a recent visit to refugee camps in Chad, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot urged the international community to cease all support to the conflicting factions in Sudan, which have been engaged in a brutal civil war since April 2023. The war, involving the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has resulted in a humanitarian catastrophe, displacing millions and leading to widespread famine. Barrot condemned the actions of Russia for vetoing a UN resolution calling for a ceasefire and accused it of disregarding the welfare of the Sudanese people, characterizing its relations with Africa as driven by greed and hypocrisy.
Barrot’s visit highlighted the plight of approximately 1.5 million Sudanese refugees in Chad, a country struggling to manage the influx amid its own challenges. He called for the Sudanese armed forces to ensure that the Adre crossing remains open to facilitate humanitarian aid delivery and urged the RSF to refrain from looting and diverting aid convoys. In support of Chad’s efforts to combat cholera and support vulnerable groups, Barrot announced an additional pledge of 7 million euros in aid, building on France’s prior commitment of 110 million dollars in April. Although many nations have pledged over 2 billion dollars in aid for Sudan, concerns about the effective distribution of assistance remain prevalent.
Since the outbreak of war in Sudan in April 2023, the country has experienced severe conflict between the national army and the RSF, leading to significant loss of life and widespread displacement. With over 25 million people facing acute hunger and the United Nations highlighting the dire humanitarian situation, the urgency for international intervention and assistance has become critical. The situation has prompted neighboring countries, particularly Chad, to respond to the refugee crisis, creating additional burdens and necessitating further international support. Barrot’s statements reflect France’s commitment to addressing the humanitarian needs in the region while also holding nations accountable for their foreign policy decisions in relation to the conflict.
The call by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot for a cessation of foreign support to the warring factions in Sudan underscores the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis facing millions. As Chad bears the impact of this conflict by hosting a substantial number of refugees, international cooperation and accountability are essential in delivering aid and fostering stability in the region. France’s financial commitments enhance humanitarian efforts, but the need for a strategic and effective approach to aid distribution remains pressing.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
