JUBA: Sudan’s army chief, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, arrived in Juba on Monday for crucial talks with South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir regarding the ongoing conflict engulfing his homeland. This visit marks Burhan’s second trip abroad since violence erupted in Sudan in April, following a recent visit to Cairo.
In a statement posted on the presidency’s Facebook page, Sudan’s acting foreign minister, Ali al-Sadiq, expressed the belief that South Sudan is ideally positioned to mediate the conflict in Sudan. He cited the long history of unity between the two countries, their deep mutual understanding, and their shared familiarity with the issues and needs involved in resolving the crisis.
South Sudan declared its independence from Sudan in July 2011, following two decades of civil war, but it has actively sought a mediating role to help bring an end to the ongoing conflict in its northern neighbor.
Martin Elia Lomuro, South Sudan’s Cabinet Affairs Minister, emphasized that finding a solution to the Sudanese crisis is in the best interests of his country. Lomuro underscored that President Kiir possesses a unique understanding of Sudan and its intricacies, making him well-placed to contribute to resolving the crisis.
Casualties in Sudan Conflict
The conflict in Sudan, which began on April 15, has pitted the regular army led by General Burhan against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. Conservative estimates from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data project indicate that around 5,000 people have lost their lives since the outbreak of hostilities.
Numerous ceasefires and truce agreements have been negotiated, primarily facilitated by the United States and Saudi Arabia. However, these efforts have thus far fallen short of achieving a lasting resolution to the ongoing fighting, underscoring the urgent need for further diplomatic initiatives and mediation to bring an end to the violence.
