Media Statement

08 May 2023

The South African Government welcomes the start of pre-negotiation talks between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces

The South African Government welcomes the start of pre-negotiation talks between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces, which commenced in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on 6 May 2023.

South Africa further joins the African Union in commending the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States of America, for facilitating and hosting the pre-negotiation talks as well as the two Sudanese parties for their direct engagement with each other across the table.

South Africa reiterates the centrality of the African Union and IGAD in the pre-negotiation and subsequent talks to ensure long-lasting solutions to the challenges faced by Sudan.

South Africa further commends the role played by the President of South Sudan, HE Salva Kiir, African leaders and others, who worked tirelessly to negotiate several cease-fire agreements between the parties.

This is in keeping with the principle of African solutions to African problems. In this regard, South Africa hopes that the AU and IGAD will continue to play a central role in the current and subsequent talks.

South Africa reiterated its call for both parties to negotiate an agreement that would end the conflict and alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people.

South Africa believes that a peaceful Sudan, led by a civilian government, is essential not only for Sudan but also for the broader region and the continent.

Enquiries: Mr Clayson Monyela, Spokesperson for DIRCO, ‪082 884 5974

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