Saudi Arabia and United States Advocate for Sudan Peace Talks Amid Conflict
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister met with US Secretary of State to push for peace talks in Sudan, amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises. The meeting also serves to prepare for President Trump’s forthcoming visit to Saudi Arabia, which may recap prior diplomatic engagements.
On Wednesday, Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan engaged in discussions in Washington, preparing for President Donald Trump’s anticipated visit. This would mark Trump’s first foreign trip in his second term. During the meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, both diplomats urged Sudan’s army and paramilitary forces to recommence peace negotiations.
The State Department’s statement emphasized the necessity for the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces to prioritize peace talks, ensuring the protection of civilians, the opening of humanitarian corridors, and the restoration of civilian governance. This call for resumption of discussions emerged after the Sudanese army announced it had reclaimed full control over the capital, Khartoum, following persistent paramilitary assaults.
The ongoing conflict, which has seen the RSF combat the army since April 2023, has resulted in severe humanitarian crises, as outlined by the United Nations. Over 12 million individuals have been displaced, and tens of thousands have succumbed to violence, with parts of Sudan officially experiencing famine, according to a UN-backed evaluation. Note that past efforts by both the United States under President Joe Biden and the Saudis to negotiate peace have been unsuccessful yet continue to be pursued.
Regarding Trump’s upcoming visit, he expressed interest in returning to Saudi Arabia as early as April, reflecting on his 2017 trip when he embarked on his initial international journey. The purpose of Prince Faisal’s visit was reported to be a preparation for this significant diplomatic meeting. Reports indicate that developments concerning Gaza, Yemen, and Syria were also discussed.
In a commitment to economic collaboration, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman pledged to invest $600 billion into US trade and investments. Trump subsequently revealed that Saudi Arabia had agreed to invest nearly a trillion dollars into American businesses, potentially boosting job creation in the US. Notably, during his first term, Trump cultivated robust ties with Riyadh and is likely to advocate for Saudi Arabia’s normalization of relations with Israel, a pivotal aspect of his foreign policy agenda, while also navigating the controversial Khashoggi case.
In summary, Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister’s meeting in Washington aims to facilitate a forthcoming visit by President Trump and to revitalize peace negotiations in Sudan. The call for continued dialogue between the Sudanese forces highlights the severity of the humanitarian crisis affecting millions. Furthermore, Trump’s anticipated visit promises to strengthen US-Saudi relations while addressing regional issues and economic collaborations.
Original Source: www.ktbs.com
