Asra AboArafe
Within the framework of Sudan’s Neighbouring Countries Summit, and in implementation of the statement issued at the first ministerial meeting in Ndjamena on August 7, 2023, the second meeting of the foreign ministers of Sudan’s neighboring countries (Egypt, Chad, Central African Republic, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Libya, South Sudan) was held on September 19, 2023, at the headquarters of the Permanent Mission of the Arab Republic of Egypt to the United Nations in New York. The meeting, which was organized in coordination between Egypt and Chad, in accordance with the outcomes of the Ndjamena meeting on August 7, 2023, witnessed the attendance of the Arab League (AL) and the African Union’s (AU) representatives who are accredited to the international organization.
The meeting affirmed the adoption of the roadmap formulated during the Ndjamena meeting and the agreement to implement its provisions through the collaborative efforts of Sudan’s neighboring countries. These efforts involve taking specific actions covering political, security, and humanitarian aspects to address the ongoing crisis, with the aim of ensuring stability and upholding Sudan’s sovereignty.
The meeting reviewed the endeavors of Sudan’s neighboring countries toward resolving the crisis, their dialogues with various Sudanese parties, and the coordination among neighboring countries and other mechanisms addressing the Sudan crisis. Furthermore, consultations took place, and viewpoints were exchanged regarding priorities for the next phase. It was agreed to undertake practical steps to achieve a sustainable ceasefire in Sudan and to mobilize international efforts to address the humanitarian situation. This encompasses providing essential assistance to neighboring countries hosting a large and growing number of Sudanese refugees.
The foreign ministers agreed to continue coordination and communication, and to convene the third meeting of foreign ministers of Sudan’s neighbouring countries in Cairo on a date to be determined soon through diplomatic channels, to assess the progress made in implementing the roadmap’s provisions.
