The UK has invited the UAE to a London conference on the Sudan conflict while excluding the Sudanese army-aligned government. This decision has provoked outrage from Sudanese officials, who argue that the UAE’s role in the conflict undermines the goals of the conference. Critics express concern about the effectiveness of the event given the absence of key parties in the negotiations.
The United Kingdom has stirred controversy by inviting the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to a London conference on Sudan’s ongoing conflict while excluding the Sudanese army-aligned government. The conference, planned for April 15, 2024, will not include the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) or the opposing paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The Sudanese foreign ministry expressed indignation, stating, “Ironically, the UAE, effectively a party to the war, is invited.”
The conference aims to engage states and international organizations that can contribute to a peaceful resolution in Sudan. However, the Sudanese army’s government criticized the UAE’s participation, arguing it may manipulate the situation to enhance its public image, especially as it faces allegations of genocide from the International Court of Justice. Furthermore, the UK has invited other countries such as Qatar, Egypt, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia—all perceived as supportive of the Sudanese army.
Sudan has recently submitted an application to the International Court of Justice against the UAE, accusing it of complicity in genocide against the Masalit community. In response, UAE Foreign Minister Anwar Gargash emphasized the need for a ceasefire and criticized the Sudanese army for “feeble media maneuvers” to avoid peace efforts. The U.S. government has also recognized the genocide committed by the RSF against the Black African Masalit group.
Reports have delved into the UAE’s support for the RSF, noting shifting supply lines and the UAE’s role as a major importer of Sudanese products. Despite previous assurances to the U.S. regarding ceasing weapon transfers to the RSF, there have been confirmations suggesting otherwise. Recent interactions between the Sudanese government and the UK had led Sudanese diplomats to believe that relations were improving, only for the invitation to the UAE to change this perception drastically.
In light of these developments, the Sudanese army has urged the UK to reconsider its stance and recognize the existential threat posed by the RSF while attributing the protraction of the war to UAE involvement. Analysts have labelled the conference as performative, with concerns regarding its effectiveness in resolving the ongoing conflict, asserting the necessity of including all key actors rather than excluding the Sudanese government.
The UK’s decision to invite the UAE to the Sudan conference while excluding the Sudanese army-aligned government has ignited strong reactions from Sudanese officials. The Sudanese foreign ministry condemned the UAE’s participation as hypocritical, given its alleged complicity in the conflict. The conference aims to foster dialogue towards a peaceful resolution; however, critics argue that excluding key players undermines its objectives. Insights from analysts suggest that genuine efforts for peace require involving all stakeholders in the process.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
