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Politics

Morocco Calls for Enduring Political Resolution to Sudan Crisis at AU Summit

Saturday 22 June 2024 - 09:50

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Since April 2023, Sudan has been engulfed in relentless conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This turmoil has precipitated severe humanitarian crises, prompting international concern and calls for a sustainable political solution.

On Friday, Morocco took a firm stance at the African Union’s (AU) Peace and Security Council (PSC) meeting, advocating for a lasting resolution to the ongoing crisis in Sudan.

Diplomatic Plea for Dialogue

Addressing the council, Mohamed Arrouchi, Morocco’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the AU and the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), underscored that political compromise remains the only viable path forward. "This solution must be grounded in serious and constructive dialogue, aimed at alleviating the suffering of the Sudanese people and preserving the country’s state institutions," Arrouchi emphasized.

Devastation and Displacement

Since the conflict's inception in April 2023, Sudan has witnessed extensive devastation. Key regions, such as El Fasher in Darfur, have seen critical infrastructure, including hospitals, attacked and rendered non-operational, exacerbating the plight of civilians who are already struggling to access essential healthcare services.

The conflict's toll is staggering: nearly 9.4 million people have been forcibly displaced, with over 7.2 million internally displaced and more than 1.9 million seeking refuge in neighboring countries like Chad, Ethiopia, and Egypt.

Urgent Call for Peace

Arrouchi articulated Morocco’s hope for an immediate cessation of military hostilities in Sudan. He advocated for dialogue as the means to restore trust, consolidate peace, and foster reconciliation to address the myriad challenges facing the nation.

Highlighting the profound ties between Morocco and Sudan, the Moroccan diplomat stressed that the resolution to the Sudanese crisis should be driven by the Sudanese themselves through constructive dialogue.

Support for International Efforts

The AU meeting afforded Morocco an opportunity to reaffirm its support for the Jeddah platform and other initiatives aimed at stabilizing Sudan. Facilitated by Saudi Arabia and the United States, the Jeddah platform serves as a negotiation framework designed to address the conflict in Sudan.

Arrouchi also emphasized the necessity of intensified diplomatic efforts to build confidence, protect the Sudanese population, and effectively respond to the dire humanitarian situation.

Warning Against External Interference

Morocco insists on the urgent need for Sudanese-led efforts to manage the crisis. Arrouchi warned that external interference could exacerbate the conflict and jeopardize regional peace and security.

The Moroccan delegation at the AU meeting reiterated Morocco’s solidarity with the Sudanese people during these challenging times, reaffirming its commitment to all regional, continental, and international efforts to find a solution that guarantees Sudan’s territorial and national unity.

As Sudan grapples with its most severe crisis in recent history, Morocco's call for an enduring political resolution underscores the urgent need for inclusive dialogue and concerted international support. The path to peace in Sudan remains fraught with challenges, but through cooperative efforts and steadfast diplomacy, a brighter and more stable future for the Sudanese people remains within reach.