Foreign ministers from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and South Korea convened on Sunday to discuss the ongoing crisis in Sudan. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE's top diplomat, and his South Korean counterpart, Park Jin, reportedly exchanged views on the political and security developments in the African nation.
The meeting, which took place in Abu Dhabi, UAE, comes amidst heightened international concern over Sudan's political turmoil. The country has been grappling with a fragile political transition following a military coup in October 2023 that ousted a civilian-led government. The ouster sparked mass protests and a violent crackdown by security forces, raising fears of a wider destabilization of the region.
Details of the discussion between Sheikh Abdullah and Park Jin were not made public. However, analysts believe the UAE and South Korea likely focused on how to encourage a return to democratic rule in Sudan and ways to address the worsening humanitarian situation. The UAE has a long history of involvement in Sudan, maintaining close ties with both civilian and military leaders. South Korea, while having less engagement historically, has recently expressed interest in supporting Sudan's development.
Sudan's strategic location on the Red Sea, bordering several key African countries, makes its stability a concern for many nations. The country is also grappling with a dire economic crisis, with food and fuel shortages commonplace. The international community is urging Sudanese military leaders to engage in a transparent and inclusive dialogue with civilian actors to find a sustainable solution to the crisis.
The UAE and South Korea's meeting is a sign of growing international efforts to address the situation in Sudan. While the two countries have different geopolitical priorities, they share a common interest in a stable and prosperous Sudan. The meeting's outcome could pave the way for further international cooperation on finding a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
Several regional and international actors are already involved in diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the crisis. The African Union (AU) has been a leading player, suspending Sudan's membership following the coup and imposing sanctions on the military leadership. The United States and other Western nations have also called for a return to civilian rule and voiced condemnation of the violence.
The success of any diplomatic efforts will depend on the willingness of Sudan's military leaders to engage in good faith negotiations. The international community is prepared to offer support to a Sudanese-led process that leads to a democratic transition and restores stability to the country.