Sudan made a breakthrough in foreign relations: Ghandour
January 18, 2016 (KHARTOUM) – Sudan’s foreign minister Ibrahim Ghandour said that Khartoum has finally made a breakthrough in its relations with the international community pointing to improving ties with several nations.
He underscored his ministry would efforts to develop policies and political initiatives with the neighbouring countries in order to “maintain Sudan’s interests”.
Sudan’s top diplomat pointed that the sixth diplomatic forum is being held under the slogan “effective diplomacy to achieve Sudan’s peace and development” which reflects Sudan’s sincere efforts to solidify meanings of peace and development among nations.
He added that Sudan pays special attention to its relations with South Sudan due to the numerous joint interests between the two nations, renewing his country’s keenness to achieve stability in the newborn nation.
Ghandour pointed to Sudan’s special ties with Ethiopia and Egypt, saying his country continues to coordinate with the two nations in various issues particularly with regard to the Ethiopian Renaissance dam.
He said the participation of his country in the Saudi-led military alliance in Yemen reflects Sudan’s interaction with the Arab issues, expressing Khartoum keenness to establish strategic relations with the Gulf States.
He indicated that Sudan’ doors are open to improve ties with the West, pointing to the cooperation between the Sudanese government and several western nations in issues of combating human trafficking, terrorism and money laundering.
The top diplomat noted his country adopts a moderate foreign policy and rejects extremism, violence and negative movements which adversely impact on international peace and stability.
Ghandour further pointed to government efforts to achieve peace in Darfur, South Kordofan and Blue Nile by engaging in dialogue and negotiations with the rebel groups.
Sudan’s foreign relations have witnessed a remarkable shift since last fall particularly in its rapprochement with the Arab Gulf states following years of chilly ties.
Also, Sudan has recently severed diplomatic ties with Iran following more than two decades of close relations. The move came within the framework of the newly emerging alliances in the region.
The East African nation also suffers from a two-decade economic embargo imposed upon it by the United States in response to its alleged connection to terror networks and human rights abuses.
(ST)