France Calls for Ceasefire in Sudan, Announces Aid to Chad

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot urged a halt to international support for warring factions in Sudan during his visit to refugee camps in Chad. He condemned Russia’s actions against a UN ceasefire resolution while highlighting the dire humanitarian crisis affecting millions. Barrot pledged additional aid to Chad and called for unimpeded access for humanitarian assistance amid the ongoing conflict that has displaced millions.

In a recent visit to refugee camps in Chad, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot called on the international community to cease support for the conflicting parties in Sudan’s ongoing civil war. This conflict, ongoing since April 2023, involves the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), resulting in widespread devastation and famine, displacing millions. The foreign minister specifically criticized Russia’s veto of a UN resolution aimed at establishing a ceasefire and protecting civilians, characterizing its actions as exploitative in its relations with Africa.

The civil war in Sudan has led to the deaths of tens of thousands and displaced over 11 million individuals, with 2.1 million seeking refuge outside the country. The United Nations reports that an alarming 25 million people in Sudan face acute food insecurity. Minister Barrot urged the Sudanese military to facilitate humanitarian aid through the Adre crossing, the primary access point to the strife-torn region of Darfur. He also requested the RSF to halt the looting of aid convoys to ensure the delivery of assistance to those in dire need.

Chad’s Foreign Minister, Abderaman Koulamallah, emphasized his country’s neutrality regarding the conflict in Sudan and reiterated a commitment to fostering peace in the region. In support of humanitarian efforts, Minister Barrot announced an additional 7 million euros in aid focused on combating cholera and providing assistance to women and children. This pledge follows France’s earlier commitment of $110 million in April 2023 to support the affected populations in Sudan and Chad. Despite international commitments totaling over $2 billion aimed at addressing the crisis, challenges in aid distribution remain a significant concern.

The ongoing civil war in Sudan emerged in April 2023, pitting the regular army against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), leading to catastrophic humanitarian consequences. The protracted conflict has resulted not only in substantial loss of life but has also triggered a refugee crisis, severely straining neighboring countries such as Chad. The humanitarian situation is compounded by widespread famine, with over half of Sudan’s population facing acute hunger. International responses have included promises of aid, but logistical and political challenges hinder effective support distribution.

In conclusion, the urgent call from France for an end to support for fighters in Sudan highlights the international community’s need to prioritize humanitarian efforts and facilitate aid distribution. The significant humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by a tragic civil war, calls for concerted global action and continued financial commitments to assist those affected, particularly the millions displaced and in dire need of basic necessities. Maintaining a neutral position, Chad recognizes its role in supporting peace initiatives while grappling with the consequences of the conflict on its territory.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com