Sudan’s military leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan welcomed Turkish mediation with the UAE to address the ongoing conflict with the RSF. As the Sudanese government seeks compensation for damages, Turkey aims to foster economic ties by launching a bank in Port Sudan and providing humanitarian aid, while emphasizing its commitment to Sudan’s sovereignty.
On January 4, 2025, in Port Sudan, Sudan’s military leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan expressed his approval of a Turkish proposal to mediate discussions between Sudan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) amid ongoing conflict involving the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The Sudanese government holds the UAE responsible for supporting the RSF and is seeking compensation for infrastructure damages caused during the prolonged conflict.
Burhan met with Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Burhanettin Duran to discuss a peace initiative presented by Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan. Duran subsequently engaged with Sudan’s Foreign Minister Ali Youssif and Finance Minister Gibril Ibrahim to explore bilateral relations and future economic cooperation. Foreign Minister Youssif highlighted that the discussions focused on the Turkish initiative and how it aims to promote peace, noting Burhan’s support for the proposed mediation. Youssif remarked, “The Turkish initiative can lead to real efforts to achieve peace in Sudan.”
In addition to diplomatic discussions, Sudan is also looking to enhance economic relations with Turkey, as Youssif noted the establishment of a bank in Port Sudan aimed at fostering trade. Turkey is set to open a headquarters for its aid agency, while three ships carrying humanitarian aid are nearing Sudan. Deputy Foreign Minister Duran reiterated Turkey’s commitment to uphold Sudan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, insisting that collective efforts are essential in addressing the conflict. Minister Ibrahim underscored Sudan’s eagerness to collaborate with Turkey across various sectors, including energy and agriculture, while voicing concern over the diminishing trade volume between the two nations. Although trade reached $625 million in 2022, it declined to approximately $200 million in the first half of 2024, with Turkish investments in Sudan totaling around $500 million.
The conflict in Sudan has been exacerbated by internal strife, particularly between the military and the RSF. The UAE’s alleged support for the RSF has led to accusations from the Sudanese government, which has, in turn, sought formal compensation through international channels like the UN Security Council. As efforts to mediate the conflict unfold, Turkey has positioned itself as a neutral facilitator, aiming to restore stability and foster economic partnerships in the region, which could help mitigate the impacts of the ongoing war.
In summary, Turkey’s involvement in mediating between Sudan and the UAE represents a critical diplomatic effort to address the ongoing conflict exacerbated by external support for paramilitary groups. Sudan’s leadership is actively pursuing enhanced economic relations with Turkey, indicating a desire for improved cooperation to stabilize the nation post-conflict. Continued dialogues and initiatives between these nations could pave the way for peace and economic revitalization, essential for Sudan’s recovery.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
