Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on Friday underscored Ankara’s role as a mediator in the ongoing conflict in Sudan, following his recent discussions with UAE officials.
Speaking at an end-of-year event at Turkey’s Foreign Ministry, Fidan revealed that during his visit to the United Arab Emirates last week, he met with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The two discussed efforts to bring an end to the fighting in Sudan, which has intensified since April, plunging the country into a humanitarian crisis.
Fidan highlighted that the discussions aimed at securing a ceasefire and reducing tensions between Sudanase military leader, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the UAE, were part of broader efforts to halt the conflict.
However, he made it clear that Turkey’s mediation efforts were focused on facilitating dialogue between the warring factions within Sudan, rather than resolving any dispute between Sudan and the UAE.
“This is more about mediation between the warring parties within Sudan rather than a dispute between the UAE and Sudan,” Fidan said.
“There are active mechanisms right now, like the Saudi-US backed Jeddah process,” Fidan said, referencing one of the key diplomatic efforts aimed at brokering a ceasefire. “Unfortunately, despite various efforts, the war has not stopped.”
Fidan stressed the devastating human toll of the war, which has caused widespread displacement, exacerbated food insecurity, and led to a mounting death toll. He called on the international community to ramp up humanitarian support for Sudan, warning that the conflict could worsen without a swift resolution.
Fidan noted that reconciliation of the political objectives of Sudan’s warring factions was crucial for peace, drawing parallels with efforts in Ukraine. He emphasized the urgency of ending the war to avoid further suffering and displacement.
“The conflict in Sudan, like others in the region, has caused immense devastation. Millions are displaced, and food security is a critical issue. The international community must act swiftly to provide much-needed aid to those affected,” Fidan concluded.
Sudan has been mired in a devastating conflict since April 2023, pitting the RSF, led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, against General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan’s SAF. The war has displaced millions and plunged the country into a humanitarian catastrophe.
