Sudan Embraces Turkish Mediation Amid Conflict with UAE and Economic Aspirations
Sudan’s military leader welcomed Turkish mediation with the UAE to resolve conflicts with the RSF. Turkey aims to enhance diplomatic and economic relations, with plans for a bank in Port Sudan and humanitarian aid shipments. Sudan seeks compensation from the UAE for damages incurred during the conflict and has elevated their complaints to the UN Security Council.
On January 4, 2025, Sudan’s military leader, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, expressed support for Turkey’s offer to mediate between Sudan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), aiming to resolve ongoing conflicts with the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The Sudanese government accuses the UAE of backing the RSF and is demanding compensation for the conflict’s devastating impacts. Burhan engaged in discussions with Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Burhanettin Duran about the proposed peace initiative from Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, which aims to conclude the 21-month war in Sudan.
Burhan’s meeting with Duran also explored the enhancement of bilateral relations and potential economic ties between the two nations. Discussing the Turkish initiative, Foreign Minister Ali Yousif remarked that it is geared towards bringing peace to Sudan, a sentiment that Burhan endorsed during the talks. Yousif urged Duran to relay Burhan’s appreciation of the initiative to President Erdogan and the Turkish Foreign Minister, who are actively involved in this diplomatic effort.
The Sudanese government is seeking damages from the UAE for infrastructure damages attributed to military support provided to the RSF. This issue is serious enough that Sudan has escalated its grievance to the UN Security Council. During his previous conversation with Burhan, President Erdogan reaffirmed Turkey’s willingness to mediate in the ongoing situation between Sudan and the UAE.
In addition to diplomatic discussions, Foreign Minister Yousif highlighted Turkey’s plans to establish a bank in Port Sudan and launch an aid agency headquarters there, alongside the arrival of three ships carrying humanitarian support. Duran emphasized Turkey’s commitment to upholding Sudan’s sovereignty and integrity and noted that achieving peace would require coordinated efforts from regional stakeholders. Sudanese Finance Minister Gibril Ibrahim expressed a desire for greater economic collaboration with Turkey, acknowledging the decline in trade which fell from $625 million in 2022 to approximately $200 million in the first half of 2024, despite considerable Turkish investments amounting to $500 million.
Sudanese-Turkish relations have historically been cordial, marked by investments and trade initiatives. However, the civil conflict in Sudan, particularly the tensions involving the RSF and the Sudanese military, has strained regional dynamics. The UAE’s involvement in supporting the RSF has raised concerns in Khartoum, prompting Sudan to seek international mediation, especially from Turkey, seen as a key regional player. The current negotiations are not just aimed at brokering peace but also enhancing economic partnerships amid a backdrop of declining trade.
Sudan’s acceptance of Turkish mediation reflects its strategic pivot towards regional allies to resolve internal strife and enhance economic ties. The discussions with Turkey emphasize a collaborative effort to achieve peace while addressing grievances against the UAE. As the situation evolves, Sudan’s actions could significantly impact its foreign relationships and economic recovery efforts.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
