UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan, emphasizing that dialogue is the only viable path to resolving the conflict and restoring peace. He made these remarks during a meeting with Sudanese Foreign Minister, Ambassador Mahdi Hassan Salem, on the sidelines of the current UN General Assembly session in New York. The two discussed the latest developments in Sudan, the humanitarian situation, and efforts to end the war.

The Sudanese Foreign Minister briefed Guterres on the current situation in Sudan, highlighting the government's commitment to continued cooperation with the UN Special Envoy and international organizations working in the humanitarian sector. Salem emphasized the government's dedication to providing necessary facilitation to ensure the smooth delivery of humanitarian aid and the passage of relief convoys to affected civilians across the country.

Guterres commended the Sudanese government's cooperation in facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid to those affected by the war. He stressed the importance of sustained humanitarian efforts alongside initiatives aimed at ending the conflict. The UN Secretary-General and the Foreign Minister also touched on the issue of Sudanese army chief, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan's, inability to participate in the UN General Assembly due to visa issues.

The meeting highlighted the disappointment expressed by Guterres regarding the US failure to issue a visa to General al-Burhan, which prevented him from attending the General Assembly. The UN Secretary-General expressed regret over the US non-compliance with its obligations under the Host Agreement, which led to the visa issuance being blocked.

The conflict in Sudan has resulted in significant humanitarian needs, with thousands of civilians affected and displaced. The Sudanese government has reiterated its commitment to providing facilitation for humanitarian aid delivery. The international community has been urged to support these efforts and provide necessary assistance to alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people.

The UN has been actively engaged in Sudan, working to address the humanitarian crisis and support peace efforts. Guterres' call for a ceasefire and dialogue reflects the organization's commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The situation in Sudan remains a pressing concern for the international community, with efforts ongoing to address the crisis.

The Sudanese government has stated its readiness to engage in negotiations to end the conflict, while rejecting any externally imposed solutions. The situation in Sudan continues to be closely monitored by the international community, with the UN playing a key role in efforts to bring peace and stability to the country.

Key points

  • The UN Secretary-General has called for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan.
  • The Sudanese government has reiterated its commitment to providing facilitation for humanitarian aid delivery.
  • The conflict in Sudan has resulted in significant humanitarian needs.

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SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.