The U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan, Tom Perriello, will visit Ethiopia and Kenya on September 29, 2024, to address the ongoing conflict in Sudan. His meetings will involve key stakeholders, including the African Union and IGAD, to promote inclusive governance and humanitarian support. The U.S. urges the conflicting parties to cease violence and comply with humanitarian laws.
Tom Perriello, the U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan, is scheduled to embark on a diplomatic mission to Ethiopia and Kenya beginning September 29, 2024. This visit, as announced by the U.S. State Department, is part of ongoing efforts to address the multifaceted conflict in Sudan and engage with significant stakeholders in the region. During his visit, Mr. Perriello intends to hold discussions with representatives from the African Union (AU) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). The State Department indicated that the Special Envoy will strive to promote an inclusive process toward the transition of Sudan to civilian governance. Moreover, he is expected to meet with members of Sudanese civil society and leaders of international non-governmental organizations, focusing on humanitarian assistance and the protection of civilians within Sudan. The State Department underscored the United States’ position regarding the Sudanese conflict, stating, “We call for the SAF and RSF to end the violence, to remove all barriers to addressing humanitarian needs, famine conditions, and gender-based violence, and to respect the laws of war regarding civilian protection.” This diplomatic initiative follows recent discussions held during the UN General Assembly’s High-Level Week and reaffirms the steadfast U.S. support for the aspirations of the Sudanese people for peace, freedom, and justice. Mr. Perriello was appointed as the Special Envoy to Sudan in July 2023, with a mandate to mitigate violence, facilitate humanitarian aid, and bolster the Sudanese population’s quest for lasting peace and justice. Notably, in August, Mr. Perriello visited Addis Ababa, where he reiterated the U.S. commitment to the Geneva peace negotiations on Sudan, asserting, “The only way out of this devastating conflict is through dialogue and negotiation.” Furthermore, Mr. Perriello reported advancements made during the Geneva talks, notwithstanding the obstacles faced in ceasefire negotiations, highlighting agreements on the opening of border crossings and pledges by conflicting parties to ensure access for humanitarian aid delivery.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has led to a humanitarian crisis, exacerbating conditions within the country and threatening regional stability. The United States has taken a proactive role in addressing this crisis through diplomatic efforts and humanitarian support. The appointment of a Special Envoy underscores the importance of engaging with local civil society and international partners to foster an environment conducive to peace and governance reforms. Previous discussions and negotiations reflect the complicated dynamics involving various factions and the dire need for a coordinated response to the challenges at hand.
Mr. Perriello’s upcoming visit to Ethiopia and Kenya signifies a critical step in U.S. diplomatic efforts to navigate the complexities of the Sudanese conflict. By engaging with key stakeholders, including regional organizations and civil society, the U.S. aims to fortify its support for a peaceful resolution and the restoration of civilian governance in Sudan. Furthermore, the emphasis on humanitarian access and the protection of civilians remains a cornerstone of the U.S. approach, highlighting the necessity of dialogue and negotiation in overcoming the current crisis.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
