CAIRO, Egypt: Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Atty has underscored the severe implications of Sudan’s ongoing civil war, which has entered its second year. Speaking at a major conference in Cairo on Saturday, attended by Sudan’s political and civil factions, Abdel Atty emphasized the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities to protect Sudanese national assets and support a coordinated international humanitarian response.
The conference highlights Egypt’s commitment to aiding Sudan in resolving its crisis and mitigating its regional impact. Abdel Atty praised neighboring countries for their solidarity, particularly those welcoming Sudanese refugees despite economic hardships. He noted Egypt’s extensive support, including urgent relief and ongoing development projects like the electric power linkage and Wadi Halfa port upgrade.
Nearly 5 million Sudanese have been residing in Egypt for many years, with thousands more arriving due to the conflict.
The minister stressed that a genuine political solution must stem from a purely Sudanese vision, supported by international and regional bodies like the African Union, Arab League, UN, and EU. Naila Hajjar, senior adviser to the UN secretary-general’s envoy to Sudan, commended Egypt’s efforts and emphasized the need for an all-encompassing Sudanese dialogue to establish lasting peace.
Subsiosa Wandira, deputy chairperson of the African Union Commission on Sudan, and EU Ambassador to Sudan Aidan O’Hara also stressed the urgency of ceasing hostilities and preventing further famine and strife. The conference was notable for its wide participation from Sudanese political factions, professional groups, civil society, and resistance committees, though the Rapid Support Forces did not attend.
Ahmed Al-Taib, an African affairs expert, highlighted the significance of the Cairo meeting, noting the factions’ readiness to engage and their trust in Cairo’s ability to facilitate a political consensus for rebuilding Sudan.
