SUDAN’S WARRING PARTIES MEET IN GENEVA FOR PEACE TALKS
Sudan’s conflicting factions have convened in Geneva, Switzerland, under the auspices of the United Nations to initiate talks focused on securing “possible local ceasefires” essential for humanitarian aid and civilian protection, according to a UN spokesperson. The conflict, which erupted in April 2023, has uprooted nearly 10 million people, triggering severe warnings of famine and ethnic violence primarily attributed to the Rapid Support Forces.
Previous negotiations in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, mediated by the United States and Saudi Arabia, collapsed late last year between the army and the RSF. In response to queries from Reuters, a UN spokesperson stated, “The discussions seek to identify avenues for advancement of the identified humanitarian and protection of civilian measures through possible local ceasefires, as requested by the Security Council.” The talks are being facilitated by UN Envoy for Sudan, Ramtane Lamamra from Algeria.
Speaking about the Geneva talks, the spokesperson highlighted that the Sudanese army and RSF would engage in “proximity talks” mediated by third parties rather than direct face-to-face meetings. This format aims to create a conducive environment for constructive dialogue amidst ongoing hostilities.
Linda Thomas-Greenfield, US Ambassador to the United Nations, emphasized in an interview with CBS News the importance of these discussions, noting the involvement of US Special Envoy for Sudan, Tom Perriello. She underscored their focus on addressing the humanitarian crisis, delivering aid to those in dire need, and striving towards a political resolution that could foster reconciliation between the conflicting parties. “These talks are about how to address the humanitarian situation, how to get assistance to those in need, and how to find a political solution to bring the two parties together,” she articulated.
