Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has offered to mediate tensions between Sudan and the UAE, following a recent call with Sudan’s military leader. This initiative aims to address disputes amid ongoing conflict in Sudan and a humanitarian crisis affecting millions. Erdogan’s efforts reflect Turkey’s increasing role in regional diplomacy, particularly after successfully encouraging dialogue between Ethiopia and Somalia over their own territorial disputes.
In a recent telephone conversation, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan proposed to mediate tensions between Sudan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) during a call with Sudanese military leader General Abdel-Fattah Burhan. This proposal follows Erdogan’s successful facilitation of discussions between Ethiopia and Somalia, demonstrating Turkey’s commitment to regional stability. Erdogan underscored Turkey’s principles of seeking peace, maintaining Sudan’s sovereignty, and preventing foreign interventions, as the Sudanese government accuses the UAE of supporting rival forces in the ongoing conflict.
The conflict in Sudan escalated dramatically in April 2023, further complicating an already dire humanitarian situation that has displaced over 13 million people. Sudan’s leadership claims the UAE has supplied arms to paramilitary groups, exacerbating the crisis; however, the UAE denies these allegations and criticizes the Sudanese government’s willingness to negotiate. Erdogan’s diplomatic efforts reflect a broader strategy by Turkey to position itself as a peace broker in the volatile Horn of Africa, emphasizing collaborations focused on territorial integrity and internal sovereignty.
On a related front, Erdogan has also been involved in fostering dialogue between Ethiopia and Somalia after recent tensions arose from an Ethiopian agreement with the breakaway region of Somaliland. This agreement has been contentious, raising issues of sovereignty and regional stability while further complicating existing disputes. The meetings held in Ankara have led to a joint declaration aimed at addressing these issues, signifying Turkey’s active diplomatic engagement in resolving regional conflicts.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan began in mid-April 2023 due to escalating tensions between military and paramilitary leaders. The situation has led to a humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced and a dire need for international intervention. Sudan accuses the UAE of supporting opposing forces, complicating potential peace negotiations. The UAE’s involvement and Sudan’s claims highlight broader geopolitical tensions in the region. Erdogan’s recent mediation efforts with Ethiopia and Somalia have positioned Turkey as a key player in addressing these intricate relationships.
Turkey’s recent initiative to mediate between Sudan and the UAE, following President Erdogan’s engagement in Ethiopia and Somalia, illustrates Turkey’s ambition to foster stability in the region. By emphasizing peace, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, Turkey aims to mitigate the escalating violence and humanitarian issues in Sudan, while also addressing the underlying tensions between regional powers and their rivals. These diplomatic efforts are crucial in navigating the fraught geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa and achieving lasting regional peace.
Original Source: apnews.com
