MONTREAL: Canada has announced the temporary suspension of its diplomatic operations in Sudan due to the escalating violence between rival Sudanese generals.
The decision was made by Global Affairs Canada, the government’s diplomatic department, as the situation in Sudan has rapidly deteriorated, making it impossible to ensure the safety and security of Canadian staff in Khartoum.
Canadian diplomats will temporarily work from a safe location outside of Sudan, though the location has not been disclosed.
The government remains in close contact with local hires and is exploring all possible options to support them, given the rapidly evolving situation.
The decision by Canada follows the evacuation of diplomatic personnel and their families by the United States, Britain, France, and several other countries from Sudan’s war-torn capital.
Saudi officials have also evacuated over 150 people, including foreign diplomats, from Port Sudan. Among those evacuated were Canadian citizens.
Riyadh confirmed that 91 Saudi citizens and around 66 nationals from 12 other countries – Canada, Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Tunisia, Pakistan, India, Bulgaria, Bangladesh, the Philippines, and Burkina Faso – have arrived safely.
Fierce battles in Sudan
Fierce battles between the Sudanese army and a paramilitary group have resulted in more than 400 deaths and thousands of injuries.
The violence erupted earlier this month when General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the leader of the ruling transitional council, dissolved the government and arrested Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok.
The move was widely condemned, and mass protests broke out in response.
The situation in Sudan remains tense, with fears of further violence and instability. Limited consular services are still being provided, and officials in Ottawa are in regular contact with affected Canadians, providing them with information and advice.
