UN and AU call for end to foreign interference
May 13, 2026 (ADDIS ABABA) – The United Nations and the African Union emphasized the importance of finding political solutions to conflicts across Africa and ending foreign interference while securing permanent funding for peace operations on the war-weary continent.
A senior African Union official stated that the crisis in Sudan requires an approach that links security with development.
The 10th High-Level Dialogue between the African Union and the United Nations concluded in Addis Ababa on Wednesday with a joint declaration to strengthen cooperation in security, development, and human rights.
African Union sources told Sudan Tribune that extensive discussions were held with the United Nations regarding the humanitarian situation in Sudan.
The discussions covered relief funding operations and logistical obstacles in delivering aid.
In a joint statement received by Sudan Tribune, both parties stressed the priority of political solutions to conflicts and the need for sustainable funding for African peace operations.
The talks addressed situations in Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Horn of Africa, and the Sahel.
Regarding Sudan, both parties welcomed calls by Sudanese civilian forces to end the war, urging the warring parties to prioritize the interests of the Sudanese people and engage in an inclusive dialogue leading to a consensus political solution.
African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf highlighted the importance of funding African peace operations, noting that the war in Sudan and crises in the Sahel and Horn of Africa require a nexus between security and development.
Youssouf warned against external interference and the instability of funding for African peace missions.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for reform of the global financial system and support for investment and clean energy in Africa.
He confirmed continued efforts with international partners and the Quintet group to resolve the Sudanese crisis and end the fighting.
Guterres warned of ongoing foreign interference in Sudan, stressing the need to reach an internal solution.