UK Invites UAE to London Conference on Sudan, Excluding Sudanese Army Government
The UK has invited the UAE to a London conference on Sudan while excluding the Sudanese army-aligned government, raising outrage among Sudanese officials. The conference aims for peaceful resolutions but has been criticized for UAE’s involvement given its past support for the RSF. The effectiveness of the conference remains in doubt amid ongoing conflict and diplomatic tensions.
The United Kingdom has invited the United Arab Emirates to a London conference focused on addressing the war in Sudan, scheduled for April 15. However, notably absent from the invitation list is the Sudanese army-aligned government, as well as the rival paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. The Sudanese foreign ministry has expressed its outrage, highlighting the irony of the UAE’s participation, given its historical support for the RSF amidst ongoing conflict.
The conference aims to bring together states and international organizations vested in promoting a peaceful resolution for Sudan. However, officials from the Sudanese army contend that the UAE’s inclusion undermines the conference’s credibility, accusing the UAE of attempting to rehabilitate its image while facing genocide charges at the International Court of Justice.
In addition to the UAE, other nations such as Qatar, Egypt, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia have been invited to participate. These nations are known to generally favor the Sudanese army over the RSF, further complicating the landscape of support in the conflict. The UAE’s involvement raises questions about the potential effectiveness of the conference as it navigates the sensitive political dynamics.
Recently, Sudan filed an application against the UAE at the International Court of Justice, alleging the UAE’s complicity in acts of genocide against the Masalit community. The UAE’s foreign minister suggested that Sudan should prioritize a ceasefire to address the humanitarian crisis, dismissing allegations of media manipulation by the Sudanese army.
The U.S. has officially recognized the RSF’s involvement in genocide against specific Sudanese communities. Reports indicate that the UAE has a history of supplying arms to the RSF through various networks, although the UAE publicly denies these allegations. This has created a contentious atmosphere as Sudanese officials grapple with their diplomatic stance.
The UK’s invitation to the UAE has caught Sudanese diplomats off guard, as they previously believed the UK was fostering warmer relations. Following the conference announcement, the Sudanese army-aligned government urged the UK to reassess its position concerning the RSF while condemning the UAE’s role in prolonging the conflict. Analysts suggest that the exclusion of the Sudanese army from vital discussions undermines the potential for genuine progress.
As the London conference approaches, skepticism arises regarding any tangible outcomes, with former officials asserting that the gathering may serve more as a performative gesture than a path toward resolving the prolonged conflict in Sudan.
In conclusion, the UK’s invitation to the UAE for the London conference on Sudan has sparked significant controversy, particularly among the Sudanese army-aligned government. The event’s effectiveness in advancing peace efforts remains uncertain due to the complex relationships and tensions among the invited parties.
The UK’s decision to invite the UAE to the upcoming London conference on Sudan while excluding the Sudanese army-aligned government has raised significant concerns among Sudanese officials. This move not only contradicts earlier diplomatic gestures from the UK but also highlights the challenges of addressing the complexities of the Sudanese conflict. The effectiveness of the conference in fostering genuine dialogue remains questionable, given the exclusion of critical stakeholders.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
