Sudan peace conference launches in Cairo amid international pressure

CAIRO – A conference aimed at fostering peace in Sudan launched in Cairo on Saturday, bringing together a broad spectrum of Sudanese political and civil forces for a “Sudanese-Sudanese national dialogue.”

The initiative, themed “Together to Stop War in Sudan,” seeks a path towards lasting peace despite initial tensions between participating factions.

High participation from various Sudanese groups marked the opening session in the New Administrative Capital. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty addressed the gathering, highlighting the critical situation in Sudan.

“The conference is being held at a critical historical moment,” he said, warning of the dangers of the humanitarian crisis and its widespread impact.

The top Egyptian diplomat demanded an “immediate and sustainable ceasefire” for military operations in Sudan.

He called on the international community to honor its pledges made during the Sudan relief conference in June 2023 and the Paris-host Sudan conference in April 2024. He emphasized that any genuine political solution should be based on a homegrown Sudanese vision.

A snag emerged when some participants, primarily from the Sudan Charter Forces (SCF), refused to share a room with the Coordination of Civil Democratic Forces (Taqaddum) led by former Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok.

Egyptian mediators intervened, facilitating separate discussions with each group through committees. Subsequently, with Egyptian assistance, participants established a committee to draft the conference’s final statement.

Representatives from the African Union (AU) and the European Union (EU) emphasized the urgency of finding a solution.

AU representative Speciosa Mandira-Kazibwe called for a peaceful solution, highlighting the escalating civil war, looming famine, and deteriorating health situation.

EU Ambassador Aidan O’Hara echoed the need for a ceasefire, civilian protection, and a solution to the humanitarian crisis.

The launch of the Cairo conference marks a significant step towards peace in Sudan. However, overcoming internal divisions and achieving a lasting ceasefire will be crucial for its success.