Sudan Peace Talks May Resume on April 18, US Suggests
WASHINGTON/CAIRO, March 26 (Reuters) – The United States is considering April 18 as a potential date to resume peace talks regarding Sudan in Saudi Arabia, according to U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan Tom Perriello. This move comes as Washington endeavors to find a solution to the conflict that has uprooted millions and led to the world’s most significant humanitarian crisis.
Perriello informed reporters on Tuesday that Washington has made it clear that any peace negotiations involving the conflicting parties in Saudi Arabia must be inclusive. This inclusivity would encompass the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, the regional East African bloc IGAD, and the African Union. While the exact start date of negotiations remains uncertain and contingent on the agreement of the conflicting parties, Perriello noted that April 18 would be a suitable time for talks to recommence after the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan. Additionally, a donor conference scheduled for April 15 in Paris adds further impetus for dialogue to resume.
“I’d like the talks to start tomorrow, but I think that realistically we’re looking at after Ramadan. But I think in the meantime, we want to use that period between now and the start of talks to be exploring every angle we can that it’s teed up for success,” remarked Perriello. “That would be a good timeline to do it. But it’s not firm.”
On Sunday, General Yasir al-Atta, a prominent leader in the army, stated that there would be no negotiations or ceasefire with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The conflict between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) erupted in mid-April last year, escalating from longstanding tensions into intense clashes. Saudi Arabia and the United States previously led discussions in Jeddah last year aimed at reaching a truce. However, these talks proved unsuccessful.
The conflict has resulted in the world’s largest displacement crisis, with segments of Sudan’s 49-million population teetering on the brink of famine. Additionally, the western region of Darfur has witnessed waves of ethnically driven violence and sexual assaults.
Perriello emphasized that the United Arab Emirates, despite accusations of providing military assistance to the RSF (which the UAE denies), and other regional actors recognize the rapidly deteriorating situation. He stressed that the RSF is currently not positioned for either military or diplomatic success.
