Africa-Press – South-Africa. The South African government has welcomed the start of the “pre-negotiation talks” between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Sudan’s warring parties commenced talks on Saturday in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as mediators pressed for an end to a conflict that has killed hundreds and seen tens of thousands fleeing abroad.
“South Africa further joins the African Union in commending the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States of America for facilitating and hosting the pre-negotiation talks, as well as the two Sudanese parties for their direct engagement with each other across the table,” Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) spokesperson Clayson Monyela said.
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“South Africa reiterates the centrality of the African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development in the pre-negotiation and subsequent talks to ensure long-lasting solutions to the challenges faced by Sudan.”
Reuters reported that the US-Saudi initiative in Jeddah was the first serious attempt to end fighting that has endangered Sudan’s fragile transition following years of unrest and uprisings.
The publication further reported that the fighting had affected vital infrastructure and caused the closure of most hospitals in conflict areas.
UN agencies have warned of a major humanitarian catastrophe if the fighting continues.
The SA government called for both parties to negotiate an agreement to end the conflict and alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people.
“South Africa believes that a peaceful Sudan, led by a civilian government, is essential not only for Sudan but also for the broader region and the continent,” Monyela said.
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