The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has called on warring factions in Sudan to observe a humanitarian ceasefire during the upcoming holy month of Ramadan, which begins in early March, to ensure safe and unimpeded access to vital aid.
This call was made by Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, during the “High-Level Humanitarian Conference for the People of Sudan” held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The conference was organized by the UAE in partnership with the Ethiopian government, the African Union, and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).
Sheikh Shakhbout emphasized that the conference was held in anticipation of Ramadan and aimed at renewing international commitments to alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people. He highlighted that this was the first conference on Sudan for the year.
The minister noted that the conference would set the path for future gatherings aimed at assisting Sudan, as the UAE continues its cooperation with both regional and international partners, particularly in Africa, to deliver aid by all available means.
Additionally, the UAE announced a further $200 million in humanitarian assistance, bringing the total amount of aid to Sudan to $600.4 million since the outbreak of the conflict.
Sheikh Shakhbout also reminded attendees that the UAE had provided $3.5 billion in aid to Sudan over the past decade, underscoring the country’s long-standing commitment to supporting those in need during crises.
The “High-Level Humanitarian Conference for the People of Sudan” was convened alongside the 46th session of the African Union Executive Council, which began on Wednesday.
