UAE Calls for Immediate Ceasefire to End Violent Clashes in Sudan
The UAE is working with African leaders to address the worsening crisis in Sudan, calling for immediate action to protect civilians and ensure humanitarian aid reaches those in need. During high-level meetings in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Angola, UAE officials emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire and accountability for crimes against civilians and aid workers.
Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, the UAE's Minister of State, met with President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo in Kinshasa. The talks focused on strengthening cooperation between the two countries and addressing the deteriorating situation in Sudan. Both leaders stressed the importance of the Quartet group - which includes the UAE, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United States - in working toward a humanitarian truce.
The UAE's involvement comes as Sudan continues to face severe humanitarian challenges. The country has been dealing with ongoing conflict that has displaced millions and created one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. International efforts to broker peace have struggled to gain traction, making regional partnerships like the Quartet increasingly important.
In Angola's capital Luanda, Sheikh Shakhboot also met with President João Manuel Lourenço. The UAE official praised Angola's central role in promoting peace and security across Africa during its presidency of the African Union. This recognition highlights how regional powers are stepping up to address conflicts that international bodies have struggled to resolve.
Both meetings produced similar outcomes: strong condemnation of violations against civilians and humanitarian workers, calls for immediate ceasefires, and demands for unobstructed access for aid deliveries. The leaders also emphasized the need to hold perpetrators accountable for crimes committed during the conflict.
For investors and businesses operating in the region, these diplomatic efforts signal potential stability improvements. The involvement of economically powerful nations like the UAE and Saudi Arabia in peace processes often brings financial resources and development opportunities once conflicts subside. Angola's leadership role in the African Union also positions it as a key partner for international businesses looking to enter African markets.
The meetings reflect a broader trend of Middle Eastern countries increasing their diplomatic and economic engagement with Africa. The UAE has been particularly active in building relationships across the continent, seeing opportunities for trade, investment, and strategic partnerships as global supply chains shift and new markets emerge.
Layla Al Mansoori