April 19, 2024 (ABU DHABI) – French President Emmanuel Marcon and UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed stressed the importance of a ceasefire and a return to the political track to end the ongoing conflict in Sudan.

The official Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported that the French President, during a Friday call with his Emirati counterpart discussed the outcomes of the Paris hosted international humanitarian conference on Sudan, on April 15.

Co-organized by France, Germany and the European Union, the conference aimed to mobilize humanitarian funding for displaced Sudanese affected by the one-year war. The meeting also discussed ways to stop the fighting and bring the warring parties to the negotiating table.

The two sides stressed the importance of ending the crisis “in a way that guarantees security and stability for the Sudanese people and fulfils their hopes for development and prosperity.”

Macron and bin Zayed further discussed recent developments in the Middle East and other regions, emphasizing the importance of peaceful solutions and dialogue in resolving various global crises that threaten international peace and stability.

]During the donor conference, France’s President urged external actors to cease supporting both sides of the Sudanese conflict.

The UAE has faced accusations of financing and providing logistical support to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces. The Gulf country has consistently denied backing the paramilitary group.

Participating in the Paris Ministerial Conference, the Emirates pledged $100 million to support humanitarian efforts in Sudan and neighbouring countries.

WAM highlighted the UAE’s efforts to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Sudan and surrounding nations. Their total aid commitment stands at $150 million, including the construction of a $20 million integrated field hospital in Abeche, Chad, to assist Sudanese refugees.

(ST)