The African Union Commission has held talks with Sudan's ambassador to Ethiopia and permanent representative to the AU, Elzein Ibrahim Hussein. The discussions focused on the situation in Sudan and the organization's efforts to support peace, stability, and recovery. Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf reaffirmed the AU's commitment to supporting Sudan as it works towards peace and stability.
The meeting covered possible cooperation in health and education, alongside broader social and economic recovery programmes. The Sudanese ambassador expressed appreciation for the organization's diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. The two officials also discussed the possibility of a visit by the AU Commission Chairperson to Khartoum, although no date was announced.
Sudan continues to face the consequences of the war between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, which began in April 2023. The conflict has caused widespread displacement, civilian suffering, and damage to public infrastructure, while disrupting essential services across the country.
The AU has been working with regional and international partners to support efforts towards a ceasefire and an inclusive political process. In September, Youssouf joined a high-level meeting involving the African Union, the United States, and other partners to coordinate efforts towards ending the conflict. He called for a humanitarian truce, protection of civilians, and a Sudanese-led political process.
The organization has also been working to restore its presence in Sudan. Its plans to reopen the liaison office in Khartoum aim to strengthen engagement with Sudanese stakeholders and support an inclusive political process. For Sudan, the discussions extend beyond ending the fighting to rebuilding institutions, restoring public services, and addressing the economic and social damage caused by the war.
The latest meeting did not produce a new ceasefire agreement or announce a concrete recovery package. However, the possibility of a visit to Khartoum would offer another opportunity for direct engagement. The central challenge remains turning diplomatic discussions into progress towards an end to the conflict.
The African Union's efforts to support Sudan's recovery are ongoing, with a focus on addressing the humanitarian and economic impacts of the conflict. The organization's engagement with Sudan's ambassador and other stakeholders aims to promote peace, stability, and recovery in the country.
Key points
- The African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf met with Sudan's ambassador to Ethiopia, Elzein Ibrahim Hussein, to discuss Sudan's recovery and possible cooperation in health and education.
