Sudan’s military leader welcomed Turkey’s mediation proposal with the UAE to end the conflict with the RSF. Talks included improving economic relations, and Sudan demands reparations from the UAE for damages caused by the conflict. Turkey plans to increase its involvement in Sudan with a new bank and aid headquarters, while trade relations have significantly declined in recent years.
On January 4, 2025, Sudan’s military leader, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, expressed a favorable response to Turkey’s proposal for mediation between Sudan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), aiming to resolve the ongoing conflict with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Sudan accuses the UAE of aiding the RSF and is demanding reparations for damages incurred during the conflict. Burhan met with Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Burhanettin Duran to discuss this initiative, as well as potential economic collaboration between Sudan and Turkey.
The discussions, which included Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssif and Finance Minister Gibril Ibrahim, highlighted the importance of strengthening bilateral relations and fostering economic ties. Youssif confirmed that the Turkish initiative, proposed by President Erdogan, is intended to promote peace in Sudan, a notion that Burhan warmly received. He requested that Deputy Minister Duran relay his appreciation of the initiative to both President Erdogan and the Turkish Foreign Minister.
Sudan has formally lodged a complaint with the UN Security Council regarding the UAE’s role in supplying military equipment to the RSF, exacerbating the conflict. Additionally, during a conversation with Burhan earlier in December, President Erdogan reiterated Turkey’s commitment to facilitate mediation efforts.
In terms of economic cooperation, Youssif conveyed Turkey’s plans to establish a bank in Port Sudan and an office for its humanitarian aid agency, alongside the arrival of three ships carrying significant humanitarian assistance destined for Sudan. Duran emphasized Turkey’s commitment to Sudan’s sovereignty as they collaborate to navigate regional dynamics that inhibit peace efforts.
Ibrahim expressed a desire for enhanced cooperation in fields such as energy, agriculture, and trade, given the unsatisfactory current trade volume between the nations. Trade figures indicate a decrease from $625 million in 2022 to an estimated $200 million in the first half of 2024, while Turkey’s investments in Sudan stand at approximately $500 million.
Sudan has been embroiled in a conflict primarily characterized by a power struggle between the Sudanese military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group. The UAE’s alleged support for the RSF has positioned it as a contentious player in this conflict, prompting Sudan to seek mediation. The involvement of Turkey, under President Erdogan, introduces a potential diplomatic resolution path, as Sudan aspires to stabilize its situation while rebuilding economic ties with Turkey, which were notable before the conflict exacerbated trade relations.
In summary, Sudan’s endorsement of Turkey’s mediation with the UAE signifies a strategic approach to resolving ongoing conflict and restoring economic partnerships. High-ranking Sudanese officials engaged in discussions related to bilateral cooperation and humanitarian assistance, while concerns regarding UAE’s involvement remain pivotal. The shift towards bolstering economic ties, along with a focus on acquiring reparations, showcases Sudan’s intent to foster a more stable and cooperative regional environment.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
