The U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan, Tom Perriello, will visit Ethiopia and Kenya starting September 29, 2024, to address the Sudan conflict. His agenda includes discussions with the African Union and IGAD, meetings with civil society, and a focus on humanitarian aid and civilian protection. The U.S. calls for an end to violence and support for Sudan’s transition to civilian governance while reaffirming its commitment to the Sudanese people’s quest for peace and justice.
Tom Perriello, the U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan, is scheduled to embark on a diplomatic mission to Ethiopia and Kenya commencing on September 29, 2024, as announced by the U.S. State Department. This visit is part of ongoing efforts to address the conflict in Sudan and to engage with essential stakeholders in Eastern Africa. During the trip, Special Envoy Perriello will hold discussions with representatives from the African Union (AU) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). The aim of these meetings is to advance an inclusive approach to facilitate Sudan’s transition towards a civilian-led government. In addition, Perriello will meet with members of Sudanese civil society and leaders of international non-governmental organizations (NGOs), focusing on humanitarian assistance and the protection of civilians within Sudan. The U.S. administration has underscored its position regarding the ongoing conflict, urging both the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to cease hostilities, eliminate obstacles to humanitarian access, mitigate famine conditions, combat gender-based violence, and uphold international humanitarian laws concerning civilian safety. This upcoming visit follows recent diplomatic engagements surrounding the UN General Assembly’s High-Level Week, reaffirming the commitment of the United States to support the aspirations of the Sudanese people for peace, freedom, and justice. Since his appointment as Special Envoy in July 2023, Mr. Perriello has been dedicated to alleviating violence, facilitating humanitarian aid, and advocating for the rights of the Sudanese populace. In August, Perriello previously visited Addis Ababa, reinforcing U.S. dedication to the Geneva peace talks concerning Sudan, remarking that, “The only way out of this devastating conflict is through dialogue and negotiation.” He has also reported advancements made during discussions held in Geneva, Switzerland, despite the complexities surrounding ceasefire agreements, highlighting commitments to open border crossings and guarantees from conflicting factions for the provision of humanitarian aid.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan, marked by violence and humanitarian crises, has drawn international attention and concern. Following the appointment of Tom Perriello as the U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan, the United States has intensified its diplomatic engagements aiming to promote peace and stability in the region. This trip to Ethiopia and Kenya signifies a broader strategy to involve neighboring countries and regional organizations in facilitating discussions and resolutions pertaining to Sudan’s political transition and humanitarian situation.
In conclusion, the visit of Special Envoy Tom Perriello to Ethiopia and Kenya represents a significant step in the U.S. diplomatic initiative to address the Sudan crisis. Through dialogue with regional stakeholders and support for civil societal engagement, the U.S. aims to foster an environment where sustainable peace can be achieved. The diplomatic approach underscores a commitment to support Sudanese aspirations in the face of ongoing conflict and humanitarian challenges.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
