UAE's Two-Year Commitment To Peace Diplomacy In The Sudan Conflict
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has consistently pursued diplomatic efforts to address the conflict in Sudan since April 2023. The UAE's approach aligns with both Arab and international positions, aiming to find a political solution that spares the Sudanese people from further suffering. Despite these efforts, the Sudanese Armed Forces chose to sever diplomatic ties with the UAE, accusing it of interference.
The UAE has made it clear that it does not recognise the authority in Port Sudan as representative of Sudan's legitimate government. It emphasised that this decision would not impact the strong relations between the UAE and Sudan. The UAE reiterated its commitment to supporting peaceful solutions and highlighted its non-involvement in providing military support to any party in the conflict.
In response to escalating violence, the UAE initiated evacuation flights between April 29 and June 2, 2023. These flights rescued 997 individuals from 26 nationalities stranded in Sudan. Priority was given to vulnerable groups such as patients, children, elderly, and women. The evacuees received comprehensive care during their stay in the UAE before returning home.
On May 3, 2023, the UAE condemned an attack on Saudi Arabia's Cultural Attaché in Khartoum by an armed group. This act of vandalism was denounced by the UAE, which stressed the importance of protecting diplomatic buildings according to international norms.
The Jeddah Declaration on May 12, 2023, was welcomed by the UAE as a significant step towards peace. This agreement aimed at protecting civilians and facilitating humanitarian aid delivery. The Friends of Sudan group also expressed concern over ongoing violence and urged for a sustainable ceasefire.
On July 14, 2023, at a summit in Cairo, neighbouring countries emphasised preserving Sudan’s sovereignty while calling for non-interference in its affairs. The African Union engaged with these efforts through virtual meetings to discuss developments and promote peace initiatives.
Ongoing Diplomatic Support
The UAE supported a UN Security Council resolution for a ceasefire during Ramadan in March 2024. It participated in an International Humanitarian Conference on April 14, pledging $100 million for humanitarian efforts. A Declaration of Principles was adopted to reinforce peace initiatives.
In June 2024, agreements were signed with UN partners like OCHA and WFP to support humanitarian efforts in Sudan. The UAE urged action against famine risks highlighted by reports warning about severe food insecurity affecting millions across Sudan.
Continued Commitment Amidst Challenges
The UAE participated in talks held in Switzerland from August 14-23, 2024. These discussions focused on addressing intolerable humanitarian conditions and ensuring relief teams have full access to deliver aid where needed.
A ministerial meeting titled "United for Peace in Sudan" took place on September 26, reaffirming support for peace initiatives while urging warring parties towards an immediate ceasefire and return to political dialogue.
Condemnation of Violence
The UAE condemned attacks on its mission residence in Khartoum by a Sudanese Armed Forces aircraft on September 29, causing significant damage. This act drew widespread international condemnation from around 100 countries expressing solidarity with the UAE against this aggression.
On November 3, escalating violence targeting civilians led the UAE to urge conflicting parties back into dialogue under commitments made through previous declarations like Jeddah’s agreement.
Sustained Humanitarian Commitment
The UAE has shown unwavering dedication throughout this crisis by providing $600.4 million worth of humanitarian assistance since its onset—totalling $3.5 billion over ten years—to alleviate suffering among those affected within Sudan’s borders amidst ongoing turmoil.
With inputs from WAM
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