Sudanese and Chadian FM discuss strained relations, efforts to end conflict

January 18, 2024 (KHARTOUM) – Sudanese and Chadian foreign ministers held a meeting on Thursday on the sidelines of the Summit of Non-Aligned Countries in Kampala to discuss the strained bilateral relations and regional efforts to end the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The Sudanese foreign ministry, in a statement issued in Port Sudan, said that the meeting focused on addressing issues of mutual concern in light of recent developments in the relationship between the two nations.

The statement alluded to the deteriorating ties between the two neighbouring countries following allegations by Sudanese officials that Chad was allowing Emirati-supplied weapons and ammunition to be transported through its airports to the RSF.

The Chadian foreign ministry, in its statement, emphasized that the meeting primarily centred on the restoration of peace in Sudan. It stressed that Chad had been actively engaged in peaceful efforts to resolve the Sudanese crisis since the outbreak of the conflict.

The Chadian ministry also indicated its willingness to mediate between the warring parties and acknowledged the initiatives taken by Sudan’s neighbouring countries to address the crisis.

The Chadian government had maintained that they did not provide or facilitate the delivery of any military support to the paramilitary forces.

(ST)