Khartoum, 29 Aug, 2023 (GNP): Sudan’s Chairman of the Sovereign Council and top military general, General Abdel-Fattah al-Burhan, has embarked on his first foreign trip since the eruption of conflict earlier this year, authorities said. His visit to Egypt holds significant diplomatic implications and underscores his commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges facing Sudan.
General al-Burhan was warmly received by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi upon his arrival at el-Alamein Airport, in a show of solidarity and regional cooperation, as reported by the sources. The discussions between the two leaders are expected to encompass a wide range of topics, including the evolving situation in Sudan and the strengthening of ties between the neighboring nations.
The conflict that erupted in Sudan in April stemmed from simmering tensions between the military, led by General al-Burhan, and the formidable paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), commanded by Mohammed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo. This strife evolved into open hostilities in the capital, Khartoum, and other areas of the country.
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The RSF controls significant areas of Khartoum, which have become focal points of the conflict. General al-Burhan’s recent emergence from the military command structure highlights his broader engagement in diplomatic and political aspects of the crisis, in addition to military considerations.
Analysts suggest that General al-Burhan’s foreign visit highlights his intention to play a pivotal role in diplomatic efforts, forge political alliances, and garner international support for the military and the current Sudanese government in their struggle against the RSF.
Accompanying General al-Burhan on this diplomatic mission are acting Foreign Minister Ali al-Sadiq, General Ahmed Ibrahim Mufadel, head of the General Intelligence Authority, and other high-ranking military officials, sources said. The visit is expected to encompass discussions on military cooperation, a vital aspect of Sudan’s current situation.
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Egypt has maintained enduring relations with the Sudanese military and its top leadership. In July, President el-Sisi hosted a meeting of Sudan’s neighboring nations and presented a ceasefire plan. Despite several fragile truces brokered by the United States and Saudi Arabia, a lasting resolution has remained elusive.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has exacted a heavy toll, straining the healthcare system to near-collapse and turning urban areas like Khartoum into battlegrounds with severe water and electricity shortages. The conflict’s epicenter in Darfur has witnessed escalated violence, evolving into ethnic clashes involving RSF and allied militias targeting ethnic African communities.
This protracted strife has claimed thousands of lives, caused immense displacement, and brought untold suffering to millions. More than 4.6 million people have been displaced, including those seeking refuge in neighboring countries, according to the UN migration agency.
General Abdel-Fattah al-Burhan’s diplomatic mission to Egypt marks a pivotal moment in Sudan’s quest for stability and peace.