Sudanese Foreign Minister to Sudanhorizon: Preconditions Must Be Agreed Upon Before Negotiations with the UAE

Cairo – Sudanhorizon – Sabah Musa

Sudanese Foreign Minister Ambassador Ali Youssef stated that Turkey’s initiative to mediate between Sudan and the UAE has likely received approval from both sides before being formally proposed.
In exclusive remarks to Sudanhorizon, Youssef explained that the initiative began positively and has sparked optimism. He praised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan as a wise leader with significant influence and strong relationships across the Arab and African regions. He added that Turkey’s weight will be a key factor in advancing the initiative but emphasized that the situation in Sudan is highly complex. The conflict, compounded by the UAE’s documented military and logistical support to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), requires a unique approach, distinct from other regional issues like those in Ethiopia or Somalia.
Youssef stressed that the Sudanese leadership must agree upon preconditions before formally entering negotiations with the UAE. These conditions include:
Ending UAE’s military and logistical support to the RSF.
UAE’s commitment to Sudan’s unity, sovereignty, and institutions, particularly the Armed Forces, is similar to commitments from countries like Egypt and Turkey.
UAE provides financial compensation to the Sudanese people and reparations for funds managed by parties connected to the Al-Daglo family.
Youssef affirmed that these conditions are non-negotiable prerequisites for any settlement.
Regarding the Taqaddum Civil Forces Coalition’s plan to form a government-in-exile to delegitimize Sudan’s government, Youssef dismissed such efforts as ineffective. He noted that RSF attempts to establish civilian administrations in regions like Al-Jazira have failed and expressed confidence that such political moves would fail. He emphasized that resolving Sudan’s crisis requires a Sudanese-led political dialogue post-war and stressed there is no concern about a government-in-exile gaining international recognition.
On the European Union’s sanctions against Sudan’s Military Intelligence Director, Lieutenant General Mohamed Subair, Youssef downplayed their importance, likening them to U.S. sanctions. He described these measures as mere expressions of dissatisfaction without practical impact.
Youssef acknowledged Egypt’s potential role in Sudan’s future, citing its geographical proximity, shared interests, and interconnected security. He noted that Egypt closely monitors developments in Sudan and will contribute to any solution acceptable to the Sudanese people.
Regarding the Jeddah Initiative, Youssef stated that reactivating it depends on the RSF fulfilling the agreements reached in May 2023. He reaffirmed Sudan’s commitment to re-engaging with the African Union. He said the issue is being addressed by the AU Peace and Security Council, which has outlined pathways for resolution in its recent decisions.
On the upcoming consultative meeting in Nouakchott scheduled for Wednesday, Youssef explained that Mauritania, the current chair of the African Union, is hosting the discussions to coordinate the various initiatives on Sudan. He clarified that this is the third meeting involving stakeholders and initiative sponsors but emphasized that Sudan is not a participant and will only review the outcomes.