UAE, U.S. leaders urge immediate action to end Sudan conflict
September 23, 2024 (WASHINGTON) – The United Arab Emirates and the United States on Monday called for immediate action to secure a lasting end to the conflict in Sudan, expressing deep concern over its devastating impact on civilians and neighbouring nations.
In a joint statement issued after a meeting between UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and U.S. President Joe Biden, the leaders highlighted the tragic consequences of the violence, including widespread displacement, famine, and atrocities against civilians.
“There is no military solution to the conflict in Sudan,” the statement said, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities, a return to political dialogue, and a transition to civilian-led governance.
Before the meeting, U.S. lawmakers had urged Biden to press bin Zayed to stop his alleged support to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), who are accused of grave human rights violations, including war crimes, crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing.
The leaders also expressed alarm at the escalating violence in Darfur. They called for all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law, emphasizing that those responsible for war crimes must be held accountable.
The statement said protecting civilians, especially women, children, and the elderly, is the highest priority, calling for the establishment of humanitarian pauses to facilitate aid delivery across conflict lines.
The visiting UAE leader is also expected to meet with Vice President Kamala Harris, who unsuccessfully raised concerns about his government’s alleged support for paramilitary forces in Sudan in December 2023.
According to the statement, President Biden designated the UAE as a major defence partner of the US. This unique designation enhances defence cooperation and security in the Middle East, East Africa, and the Indian Ocean regions. It fosters unprecedented cooperation through joint training, exercises, and military collaboration between the US, UAE, and other partners for regional stability.