Erdogan Proposes Mediation Between Sudan and UAE Amid Regional Tensions

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has offered to mediate tensions between Sudan’s military leadership and the United Arab Emirates, following a recent successful negotiation with Ethiopia and Somalia. Erdogan aims to establish peace in Sudan and maintain its territorial integrity amid allegations against the UAE concerning the supply of arms to rival forces. The humanitarian crisis in Sudan demands urgent attention as the conflict affects millions of citizens displaced from their homes.

In a recent development, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan extended an offer to mediate tensions between Sudan and the United Arab Emirates during a telephone conversation with Sudan’s military chief, General Abdel-Fattah Burhan. This gesture follows Erdogan’s successful mediation earlier this week between Ethiopia and Somalia regarding territorial disputes. Erdogan emphasized that Turkey’s fundamental objective is to foster peace and stability in Sudan, maintain its territorial integrity, and mitigate external influences on the region.

The Sudanese government has accused the UAE of supplying arms to rival paramilitary forces, exacerbating existing conflicts. Meanwhile, the UAE refutes these claims and accuses the Sudanese administration of evading negotiations. The ongoing turmoil in Sudan began in April 2023, spurred by deep-rooted discord within military factions, resulting in a major humanitarian crisis affecting over 13 million individuals displaced from their homes.

President Erdogan’s recent discussions in Ankara with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud concluded with a joint recognition of Somalia’s integrity and an agreement to engage in discussions to resolve disputes stemming from Ethiopia’s dealings with Somaliland, a region claiming independence from Somalia. Tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia have been heightened by Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland regarding the establishment of a military base along the coast, further complicating the geopolitical landscape.

The context of President Erdogan’s offer is defined by escalating tensions in Sudan following the outbreak of conflict in April 2023 between military and paramilitary factions. A significant aspect of this strife involves accusations against the UAE for supporting rebel groups, which complicates any peace efforts. Similarly, regional tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia have further complicated the geopolitical environment in the Horn of Africa, where external mediation, particularly from Turkey, becomes critical. Erdogan’s attempts to mediate stem from a broader Turkish foreign policy that seeks to enhance Turkey’s influence in Africa through diplomatic engagement and conflict resolution initiatives.

In conclusion, President Erdogan’s offer to mediate the conflict between Sudan and the UAE reflects Turkey’s broader strategy to position itself as a key diplomatic player in Africa. The situation in Sudan is urgent, with severe humanitarian repercussions, while tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia remain fraught with complex territorial disputes. Erdogan’s mediating role underscores Turkey’s commitment to regional stability and the prevention of external interferences in African affairs. Whether these efforts will result in successful diplomacy remains to be seen.

Original Source: apnews.com