Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister discusses latest developments in Sudan with the ambassador in Riyadh
His Excellency the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Engineer Waleed bin Abdulkarim Al-Khuraiji, received today at the Ministry's headquarters in Riyadh, the Ambassador of the Republic of Sudan to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Dafallah Al-Haj Ali. This meeting comes within the framework of the Kingdom's ongoing diplomatic efforts to address pressing regional issues, most notably the Sudanese crisis, which is witnessing rapid developments that necessitate continuous coordination and ongoing consultation between the two brotherly countries.
During the meeting, a comprehensive review of the current situation in Sudan was conducted, with both sides discussing the field and political challenges facing Khartoum at present. The meeting also addressed regional and international efforts to de-escalate the conflict and reach sustainable solutions that guarantee the security and stability of Sudan and its brotherly people, reflecting the deep historical and fraternal ties that bind the Kingdom to Sudan.
The Saudi role and the Jeddah route
This meeting is of particular importance given the pivotal role Saudi Arabia has played since the outbreak of the crisis in Sudan in mid-April 2023. Riyadh was at the forefront of hosting talks between the conflicting parties through the "Jeddah Platform," in cooperation with the United States, with the aim of reaching ceasefire agreements and facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid. These periodic discussions with Sudanese officials underscore the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to continuing its good offices to bridge the gaps and advance the political process as an alternative to military solutions.
Human and strategic dimensions
Saudi Arabia's efforts are not limited to the political sphere; they extend to the humanitarian aspect, which is a cornerstone of the Kingdom's foreign policy. Through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, Saudi Arabia continues to operate air and sea bridges to deliver food and medicine to those affected by the conflict in various Sudanese states. In addition, the Kingdom is hosting large numbers of Sudanese nationals and facilitating their entry procedures.
Regional security and stability in the Red Sea
From a geopolitical perspective, the stability of Sudan is a strategic interest for the entire region, particularly for the Red Sea littoral states. The Kingdom recognizes that continued tension in Sudan could cast a shadow over regional security, making the continuation of diplomatic channels, such as the meeting between the Deputy Foreign Minister and the Sudanese Ambassador, an urgent necessity to coordinate positions and ensure that the situation does not deteriorate further. This underscores the Saudi leadership's commitment to the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Sudan.
