International envoys meet to coordinate Sudan peace efforts
March 19, 2025 (ADDIS ABABA) – The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and international envoys met in Addis Ababa on Wednesday to coordinate efforts to mediate an end to the conflict in Sudan, emphasizing the need for a unified approach, the regional body said.
IGAD has spearheaded an initiative to resolve the crisis, but the Sudanese government has rejected its involvement. Prospects for a ceasefire remain dim as both sides continue to pursue military action in a war nearing its second year.
The “Forum of Special Envoys and Representatives for Coordinating Mediation Efforts in the Sudan Peace Process,” organized by IGAD, brought together regional and international representatives and key stakeholders. The meeting was led by IGAD’s Executive Secretary, Workneh Gebeyehu, and IGAD’s Special Envoy for Sudan, Lawrence Korbandi. The goal, IGAD said, was to harmonize mediation efforts and boost cooperation toward a Sudanese-owned and -led resolution.
In a statement, IGAD pledged to support a “coordinated and inclusive peace process” and stressed the importance of a “unified and carefully coordinated mediation approach.”
“The role of mediators is to facilitate a process that ensures the voices of the Sudanese people are heard and their aspirations for peace are realized,” Gebeyehu said at the opening of the forum. He added that the meeting was a step toward organizing efforts, avoiding duplication, and ensuring collective impact.
A statement issued by the forum and obtained by Sudan Tribune said discussions focused on five priorities: improving coordination among envoys, creating a roadmap to implement the Jeddah Declaration, engaging with Sudanese civil society, aligning efforts on accountability, and boosting humanitarian diplomacy.
The meeting concluded that achieving peace in Sudan requires sustained engagement and a realistic, long-term mediation strategy. Envoys and representatives reaffirmed their commitment to work with IGAD and Sudanese stakeholders to maintain dialogue, build trust, and ensure a credible peace process.
IGAD said it would work “tirelessly” to facilitate diplomatic solutions that respect Sudan’s sovereignty and the aspirations of its people and that it remains committed to supporting Sudan until a lasting peace is achieved.
The organization said it and its partners would refine their approach to cooperation and engagement as the forum continues. The meeting’s outcomes are expected to shape ongoing mediation efforts and contribute to a more coordinated international response.
The Sudanese government indicated last week that it was willing to resume its participation in IGAD after suspending its membership over a year ago.