Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Aaty met on Wednesday with Sudanese Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Omar Siddiq in Cairo to discuss bilateral relations and the ongoing crisis in Sudan. The meeting underscored Cairo’s firm stance in supporting Sudan’s unity, stability, and sovereignty amid escalating challenges across the region.
According to Foreign Ministry Spokesman Tamim Khallaf, the talks opened with Minister Abdel Aaty extending Egypt’s heartfelt condolences to the Sudanese people following recent deadly landslides in the Darfur region. The tragedy, which added to Sudan’s already dire humanitarian situation, highlighted the urgent need for regional cooperation and relief efforts.
Abdel Aaty reaffirmed Egypt’s unwavering support for Sudan, emphasizing Cairo’s role in both regional and international initiatives aimed at resolving the Sudanese conflict. He reiterated that any sustainable resolution must be Sudanese-led and inclusive, involving all relevant stakeholders in a political process that ensures a lasting ceasefire and addresses the root causes of the conflict.
The Egyptian minister firmly rejected any external attempts to undermine Sudan’s territorial integrity or national institutions, warning against actions that could further destabilize the war-torn country. He stressed that Egypt views any threats to Sudan’s unity as a red line.
The two sides reviewed Egypt’s contributions to supporting Sudanese civilians displaced by conflict. Abdel Aaty highlighted the measures Egypt has taken to facilitate the voluntary return of Sudanese nationals who fled the violence, as well as its broader efforts to assist with reconstruction, recovery, and long-term development.
Key areas of cooperation discussed included infrastructure rehabilitation, particularly in electricity, water, healthcare, and education. The ministers expressed mutual interest in accelerating joint projects to rebuild vital sectors affected by the ongoing war.
Looking ahead, both parties welcomed plans to hold the second edition of the Egypt-Sudan Business Forum later this year in Cairo. The forum aims to strengthen economic ties and promote trade and investment opportunities. In addition, preparations are underway for a joint trade committee meeting to further institutionalize commercial cooperation between the two neighboring nations.
The visit comes at a critical time, as Sudan continues to grapple with a deepening civil conflict that has displaced millions and pushed large swathes of the population into humanitarian need. Egypt, which shares historical and strategic ties with Sudan, remains a central player in efforts to mediate peace and provide support to its southern neighbor.
