RIYADH: Foreign Minister Prince Faisal Bin Farhan Bin Abdullah of Saudi Arabia held a phone conversation with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The discussion revolved around Saudi-US relations and ways to enhance cooperation in various fields, as well as the latest regional and international developments.
During the call, the two foreign ministers reviewed aspects of the Saudi-US relationship and explored ways to strengthen and develop cooperation across all areas. They also discussed collaborative initiatives to address the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
The Saudi and US foreign ministries released separate statements, highlighting their joint efforts to end the war in Sudan. The Jeddah process, initiated by both countries, aimed to resolve the Sudanese conflict and resulted in the negotiation of a declaration of principles and three truce agreements. However, these efforts fell short of halting the ongoing fighting.
Saudi Arabia’s Efforts to End War in Sudan
The Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), supported by the African Union and the United Nations, established a quartet group to end the war and initiate a political process. However, progress in mediation has stalled due to the Sudanese military-led government’s rejection of the Kenyan chairmanship.
Secretary Blinken shared a brief tweet stating, “I spoke today with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan to discuss efforts to end the devastating conflict in Sudan and other bilateral and regional issues.”
According to the Saudi foreign ministry, the conversation between Farhan and Blinken encompassed joint efforts and developments on the regional and international stages. The discussion followed a meeting among Sudan’s neighboring states, which aimed to address the armed conflict. The regional process, initiated by Cairo, recognizes the vital role neighboring countries play in resolving the situation in Sudan.
Some experts and researchers have suggested that the US administration aims to prevent any Egyptian role in Sudan and has adopted a multifaceted approach towards the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). There are concerns that this strategy may create chaos in Sudan and provide political legitimacy to the RSF, with alleged involvement from Washington and support from regional proxies such as Ethiopia and Kenya.
The ongoing dialogue between Saudi Arabia and the United States highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to addressing regional conflicts and collaborating on key international issues. The efforts to find a resolution in Sudan demonstrate the Kingdom’s dedication to promoting peace and stability in the region.
