The UAE recently participated in talks regarding Sudan in Switzerland from August 14-23. The meetings were convened by the US, co-hosted by Saudi Arabia and the Swiss Federation, under the newly established ALPS group. The format includes the UAE, the US, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the Swiss Federation, the African Union, and the United Nations.
At the conclusion of the talks, Lana Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister for Political Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and head of the UAE delegation, emphasized the intolerable humanitarian situation in Sudan. She stressed the overwhelming need for humanitarian assistance and urged all parties to allow aid groups to deliver aid to those in need, emphasizing the UN’s World Food Program’s ability to prevent famine.
The UAE has provided over US$3.5 billion in humanitarian aid to Sudan over the past decade, including $230 million since the current crisis outbreak. The country is committed to continuing its efforts to assist the people of Sudan. The talks in Switzerland are built on the foundation of the Jeddah Agreements, with the UAE expressing gratitude to Saudi Arabia and the US for their dedication to addressing the crisis.
During the talks, tangible improvements were made for the people of Sudan, including agreements on humanitarian access and protection of civilians. The UAE pushed for a focus on integrating the perspectives, goals, and recommendations of Sudanese women into peace and humanitarian efforts. The country emphasized the protection of all civilians, including women and girls, from violations of international humanitarian law.
While progress towards a full cessation of hostilities was not as significant as desired, the UAE remains committed to supporting the people of Sudan in restoring peace and delivering aid. The country hopes for future participation from all parties and continues to work towards tangible outcomes for the Sudanese people. The UAE’s priority is to ensure the delivery of aid and assistance to those in Sudan who desperately require it.
