Sudan: Great Lakes Peace Requires State Sovereignty and an End to Foreign Interference

Lusaka – Sudanhorizon

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ambassador Mohieddin Salem stressed that achieving peace and stability in the Great Lakes region requires respect for state sovereignty and an end to foreign interference. He also called for efforts to curb the cross-border flow of weapons and mercenaries, combat the illegal exploitation of natural resources, and stop gold smuggling that fuels conflicts.

Speaking at the closed ministerial session of the high-level meetings of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) on Monday, Salem emphasized the need to adopt African solutions developed by the continent’s own countries, free from external dictates.

The minister took part in ministerial deliberations on strengthening regional security, including disarming armed groups and foreign fighters in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and surrounding areas. Discussions also covered enhancing intelligence and defence cooperation among member states, combating resource smuggling, and strengthening humanitarian responses to refugee and displacement crises.

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema addressed the opening session, urging countries in the region to prioritize preventing conflicts before they erupt by promoting economic growth, creating jobs, and improving living conditions. He also expressed his interest in developments in Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the Central African Republic.

Sudan reaffirmed its commitment to cooperation with countries across the region and its partners. Salem expressed support for the outcomes and recommendations of the ministerial committee, in preparation for their submission to the summit of heads of state and government for approval.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation led Sudan’s delegation to the 21st Ordinary Session of the ICGLR Regional Interministerial Committee, held in the Zambian capital, Lusaka, with high-level regional and international participation. The Minister of Defence also participated in the Defence Ministers’ meeting held ahead of the high-level event.

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