Today's Edition
Mays Ibrahim (ABU DHABI)
The UAE has reiterated its support for the US-led Quad mediation efforts in Sudan, calling for an immediate humanitarian truce and a permanent ceasefire that would pave the way for a civilian-led government.
Lana Nusseibeh, Minister of State and Envoy of the Minister of Foreign Affairs to the European Union, said on Thursday that the UAE is in regular consultations with EU member states and officials, including EU envoy Annette Weber, to coordinate on the ongoing conflict.
She welcomed the European Parliament’s resolution supporting mediation efforts and the EU foreign ministers’ conclusions, which stress the primacy of the Quad – a coalition of the US, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
Nusseibeh said the Quad's September 12 statement represents a “historic step” towards ending the war by outlining a realistic roadmap for Sudan, including an immediate humanitarian truce, a permanent ceasefire, and a transition to an independent civilian government.
“The Quad has come behind the position that Sudan, unlike in many points of its history, should not have a future that is determined by extremist groups or become a fragile state where terrorists find safe haven,” she added.
“The Quad's statement clearly says that there should not be a future for the Muslim Brotherhood in Sudan, and that an independent civilian-led government is the future for a stable and secure Sudan.”
Nusseibeh also condemned the weaponisation of food aid by warring parties, stressing that humanitarian assistance must reach those in need without obstruction.
The UAE has provided $800 million in humanitarian assistance in recent years, making it the second-largest donor to Sudan after the US.
“We are committed to the people of Sudan. We are committed to a humanitarian truce being achieved immediately in Sudan,” Nusseibeh said.
Highlighting Sudan’s complex history and the repeated breakdown of civilian transitions, Nusseibeh noted that past mediation processes – including the ALPS and Jeddah initiatives – have been incorporated into the current Quad efforts.
“The UAE is fully committed to stopping this war now,” she added, noting that both parties must likewise commit to a ceasefire and truce if Sudan is to have a chance at peace.
The next phase of mediation, Nusseibeh said, will require monitoring on the ground, unfettered humanitarian aid, and support from international partners for a civilian transition.
