Egypt’s Foreign Minister Strengthens Ties with Sudan Amid Refugee Crisis

On December 3, 2024, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty visited Sudan, conveying President El-Sisi’s support to General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan amidst Sudan’s ongoing conflict. They discussed bilateral relations, Sudanese refugee challenges, and Egypt’s intention to help Sudan rejoin the African Union, all while addressing concerns regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.

On December 3, 2024, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty embarked on a diplomatic visit to Sudan, delivering a supportive message from President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, leader of Sudan’s Sovereign Council. This visit is significant as it represents the highest-level diplomatic engagement since the onset of hostilities between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in April. Egypt has consistently shown its support for the Sudanese military throughout the conflict.

During this meeting, Al-Burhan received a written communication from President El-Sisi emphasizing the importance of enhancing bilateral relations. Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssif remarked that “This visit reflects the strength and development of relations between the two countries,” which is vital as Sudan endeavors to navigate through the ongoing war.

In addition to diplomatic discussions, Minister Abdelatty addressed the challenges faced by Sudanese refugees in Egypt, committing to explore solutions to their plight. He reiterated Egypt’s unwavering support for Sudan and emphasized the importance of coordination on various regional and international issues. Furthermore, Abdelatty expressed a commitment to facilitate the reinstatement of Sudan’s membership in the African Union.

Both ministers engaged in discussions aimed at advancing political, economic, and consular cooperation between the two nations, particularly focusing on mitigating obstacles encountered by Sudanese citizens who have sought refuge in Egypt since the conflict’s outbreak. As a result of the conflict, Egypt has accommodated approximately 1.2 million Sudanese refugees, with many entering the country without proper documentation due to stringent visa regulations.

The timing of Abdelatty’s visit is particularly relevant against a backdrop of heightened tensions involving Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. Abdelatty reiterated Egypt’s concerns regarding the dam’s potential effects on countries downstream.

The ongoing conflict in Sudan between the military and the RSF has created a substantial humanitarian crisis, leading to mass displacement. As of April 2024, an influx of Sudanese refugees has sought asylum in neighboring Egypt, which has taken in over a million displaced individuals. This situation necessitates diplomatic engagement and support to address not only the humanitarian aspects but also the geopolitical tensions in the region, particularly concerning the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which has implications for water security among the Nile Basin countries.

The visit of Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty to Sudan underscores the strengthening bilateral ties and Egypt’s commitment to supporting Sudan amidst its internal conflicts. The meeting highlights collaborative efforts to address the humanitarian needs of Sudanese refugees in Egypt and the necessity of political unity within the region, especially with respect to ongoing issues related to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. Overall, this engagement is critical for fostering stability and cooperation between Sudan and Egypt moving forward.

Original Source: sudantribune.com