US Special Envoy for Sudan Tom Perriello announced that formal talks to end the war in Sudan may resume in mid-April, as the conflict approaches its one-year mark. Perriello expressed cautious optimism about the potential for success in the talks, citing changes on the ground that make this moment more promising. He acknowledged that the odds are not overwhelmingly favorable but emphasized the commitment to pursuing a resolution with all available resources.
The formal talks are expected to begin after Ramadan, with a potential start date of April 18. Perriello mentioned that the goal is to finalize the date soon, allowing participants to transition from a donor conference in Paris on April 15 to the talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. In the intervening period, efforts will focus on exploring various avenues to ensure that the talks are set up for success. This upcoming meeting will mark the one-year anniversary of the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, which has resulted in significant casualties, displacement, and a severe hunger crisis according to the UN.
The talks in April will be jointly hosted by the US and Saudi Arabia, with the participation of key regional players such as the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, and the African Union. Perriello highlighted the importance of identifying the right combination of actors and incentives to facilitate an end to the war. He mentioned the urgency of resolving the conflict, especially with reports of Islamist extremists returning to Sudan. Perriello also acknowledged the challenges posed by forced recruitment and emphasized the need for expanded sanctions on perpetrators of atrocities in Sudan.
Both the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces are identified as significant impediments to the delivery of humanitarian aid in Sudan. Perriello stressed the critical importance of ensuring access for humanitarian convoys, particularly given the lack of resiliency in the region due to looting and destruction of food supplies and crops. As Sudan faces a serious humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the impending lean season and rainy season, efforts are underway to address the pressing needs of the population through organizations like the World Food Program.
In light of the escalating conflict and dire humanitarian situation in Sudan, Perriello emphasized the potential for diplomatic engagement and strategic incentives to yield a successful outcome in the upcoming talks. He highlighted the necessity of finding a resolution to the conflict, given the profound impact on the civilian population and the urgent need for humanitarian assistance. Perriello underscored the importance of international collaboration and support in addressing the challenges facing Sudan and expressed hope for a productive and meaningful dialogue that could lead to lasting peace and stability in the region.
