The UK invited the UAE to a conference on Sudan’s war while excluding the Sudanese army government, drawing outrage from Sudanese officials. The Sudanese foreign ministry highlighted the irony of the UAE’s invitation despite its alleged support for warring factions. Tensions are further exemplified by Sudan’s legal action against the UAE for genocide complicity, while the US has deemed the RSF’s actions as genocidal. The effectiveness of the London conference in fostering peace remains doubtful as major actors are overlooked.
The United Kingdom has announced that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will participate in a conference set for April 15 in London regarding the ongoing conflict in Sudan. However, neither the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) nor the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) were invited, much to the dismay of officials aligned with the Sudanese military government. A document disclosed to Middle East Eye expresses concern that the exclusion of the Sudanese government is under the guise of it being a “warring party.”
The Sudanese foreign ministry expressed outrage at the invitation extended to the UAE, noting its role in providing support to the RSF during the ongoing humanitarian crisis that erupted in April 2023. The ministry’s document articulates a feeling of irony, stating, “Ironically, the UAE, effectively a party to the war, is invited.” The document condemns the UAE’s presence as merely a public relations exercise designed to improve its image amid accusations of genocide before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The London conference seeks to bring together nations and organizations that support a peaceful resolution in Sudan. Included in the guest list are other countries with vested interests in the conflict: Qatar, Egypt, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, all of which are perceived as favoring the Sudanese army. These developments have exacerbated tensions, and the Sudanese government urges a reassessment of the UK’s diplomatic position regarding the RSF.
Amid these tensions, Sudan has initiated application proceedings against the UAE at the ICJ, accusing it of complicity in genocide against the Masalit community. Anwar Gargash, the UAE’s foreign minister, countered these claims by emphasizing the necessity for Sudan to cease hostilities and focus on resolving its humanitarian issues. The United States has classified actions by the RSF and affiliated militias as genocide against the Black African Masalit group in Darfur.
Middle East Eye has previously highlighted the UAE’s backing of the RSF through various networks across the region. Recent reports indicate that the supply lines have shifted, illustrating the UAE’s continued support. Although trade data reveals that the UAE is the primary purchaser of Sudanese products, only army general Yasser al-Atta has called for cutting diplomatic ties with the UAE.
On the diplomatic front, London’s invitation to the UAE, in lieu of the army-aligned Sudanese government, surprised Sudanese diplomats who believed relations were improving. UK Foreign Minister David Lammy had recently dispatched Harriet Mathews to engage with Sudanese officials, indicating potential support for the SAF. Yet, the failure to include the Sudanese army representatives has led to renewed dissent from Sudanese officials. Kholood Khair, a Sudanese analyst, remarked that the UK’s approach appears inconsistent and questioned its strategic direction.
Ultimately, it remains unclear if the London conference will revitalize any effective diplomatic endeavors, as skepticism persists regarding the sincerity of the UK’s intentions toward lasting peace. Former officials have characterized the forthcoming event as largely performative instead of genuinely aimed at concluding the conflict.
The UK’s decision to invite the UAE to the upcoming London conference while excluding the Sudanese army-aligned government has sparked significant outrage. This diplomatic move raises questions about the UK’s stance on potential peace efforts, as Sudan seeks to accuse the UAE of complicity in genocide. With the involvement of other nations known to support the Sudanese army, the conference could be viewed as lacking inclusivity. As skepticism about the efficacy of this conference persists, the need for comprehensive dialogue involving all parties remains crucial for resolving the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
