Sudan intends to rejoin IGAD and the African Union, a move signaled during Malik Agar’s visit to Djibouti. This follows Sudan’s suspension from IGAD in January 2024 and suspension by the African Union post-coup in October 2021. The developments suggest Sudan’s aim to strengthen its regional ties.

In a recent visit to Djibouti, Sudan’s Deputy Head of the Sovereign Council, Malik Agar, expressed Khartoum’s intention to rejoin the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the African Union. This was confirmed by officials from both Sudan and Djibouti. Agar presented a letter from Sovereign Council leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan to Djiboutian President Ismail Omar Guelleh, who currently serves as the rotating president of IGAD.

The letter highlighted Sudan’s interest in strengthening bilateral relations and emphasized the nation’s aim to renew its membership in regional organizations. Sudan previously suspended its IGAD membership on January 20, 2024, due to objections regarding the participation of Rapid Support Forces commander, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemetti, at a summit in Uganda.

Additionally, the African Union suspended Sudan following a military coup on October 25, 2021, which was orchestrated by al-Burhan with Hemetti’s participation. These developments indicate Sudan’s desire to reintegrate into the regional community and restore its standing on the international stage.

Sudan is actively seeking to renew its participation in both IGAD and the African Union after previous suspensions. The intention was underscored by Malik Agar’s recent communications with Djibouti’s leadership, signaling a shift towards re-engagement with regional partners post-coup. This move could be pivotal for Sudan as it aims to restore its diplomatic relationships and enhance bilateral ties with neighboring countries.

Original Source: capitalethiopia.com