Sudan’s Ambassador to Moscow: Al-Burhan’s Visit to Russia Paves the Way for a Strategic Partnership

Cairo – Sudanhorizon – Sabah Mousa
Sudan’s Ambassador to Moscow, Mohamed El-Ghazali El-Tijani, has reaffirmed that the Russia-Africa Summit concluded successfully, with the participation of 48 out of 54 African nations.

In an exclusive statement on Sunday, El-Tijani noted that this broad participation reflects the positive nature of Russia-Africa relations—a relationship now gaining momentum and positive dynamism. This comes against the backdrop of a crumbling international order, no longer governed by the fundamental principles and pillars that once guided the foreign policies of nations. Consequently, Africa has sought a reliable partner to build balanced relations based on equal sovereignty and mutual interests, free from dictates or preconditions.
He pointed out that the summit’s outcomes reaffirmed these principles and established practical foundations for forging strong, effective partnerships between Russia and African states.
Al-Tijani described the participation of the Chairman of the Sovereign Council, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, as exceptional, given the significant challenges facing Sudan—namely the rebellion by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia, the violations they have committed, and the regional and international support they have received.
He emphasized that this participation rose to the scale of the challenge; Al-Burhan’s address reflected the true situation in Sudan and outlined a vision for resolving the crisis and achieving a sustainable peace through a democratic transition—one whose foundations would be laid by the Sudanese people themselves, free from external interference.
Al-Tijani added that the ordeal Sudan is enduring is a manifestation of the broader crisis within the international order, which is no longer governed by the principles of the UN Charter. He noted that Al-Burhan’s statement captured this perspective by reaffirming Sudan’s commitment to working toward a multipolar international order in which all states enjoy equal sovereignty.
The Ambassador noted that the bilateral meeting between Al-Burhan and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, was characterized by an atmosphere of warmth, friendship, and mutual ease. During the meeting, the two leaders exchanged views on bilateral issues and the necessity of strengthening relations at this juncture—a particularly significant time, as both nations are celebrating the 70th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic ties.
The Ambassador stated that both leaders acknowledged this milestone and expressed their complete satisfaction with the current state of relations, alongside a shared desire and commitment to elevate them to the level of a strategic partnership.
He explained that the discussions were clear and focused, with each side presenting its vision for developing ties—specifically in the economic and commercial spheres—through concrete projects across various sectors, aligned with each nation’s national interests, resources, and capabilities.
He added that both countries possess vast potential and resources that could underpin a robust partnership. Furthermore, Al-Burhan affirmed that all the outcomes outlined in the summit’s final statement could be implemented in Sudan.
The Ambassador described the visit as “historic,” anticipating that it would leave a significant mark on strengthening Sudanese-Russian relations and advancing them toward a strategic partnership. This is expected to be achieved through key, vital projects discussed—particularly in agriculture, mining, energy, and the development of supply chains—which would have an impact not only on Sudan but also on the African continent, given Sudan’s role as a crucial gateway to the region.
Al-Tijani emphasized that the awarding of an honorary doctorate to the Chairman of the Sudanese Sovereign Council by the Russian State University for the Humanities was a significant event. He noted that the ceremony featured a grand, distinctly Russian-style reception—reflecting traditional Russian hospitality through vibrant attire and festive displays that showcased the depth of Russian heritage.
He added that the performance of the Sudanese national anthem in Arabic was particularly striking and impressive, symbolizing the connection between peoples and the cross-pollination of cultures. Furthermore, a choir performed a song about Sudan—a land deeply cherished—which was well-received by the audience and added a special significance to the visit.
Al-Tijani pointed out that the visit also saw several collaborative initiatives between the two nations, including the signing of a sister-city agreement between Saint Petersburg and Port Sudan just days before the summit.
Additionally, a memorandum of understanding for cooperation was signed between the Red Sea State and Saint Petersburg University during the economic forum held on the sidelines of the summit. According to Al-Tijani, these agreements also included a cooperation agreement between Sudan National TV and the Russia Today (RT) channel, a step designed to strengthen media engagement and the exchange of expertise between the two countries.

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