Press Statement by the Government of Sudan on the Invitation from the UN to Indirect Dilebrations in Geneve on the Humanitarian Situation

Statement by the Government

In keeping with its national duty towards its citizens, and in fulfillment of its obligations under international humanitarian law, and out of its keenness on cooperation, positive and constructive engagement with the United Nations, as represented by the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mr. Ramatan Lamamra, the Government of Sudan agreed to participate in indirect deliberations in Geneva on the humanitarian situation, at the instance of the latter. The Government’s technical delegation to these deliberations, headed by Ms. Salwa Adam Benya, Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid, comprises representatives of all competent ministries and government agencies. The invitation letter by Mr Lamamra speaks of indirect discussions on the issue and not a negotiation process. Nevertheless, the delegation of the Government of Sudan has not yet received any proposed agenda or program for these deliberations, a few days after their arrival in Geneva. Moreover, contrary to what indirect discussions entails, the delegation was invited to a meeting at the Palais des Congrès in Geneva, which contradicts the understanding that there would be no media coverage of the discussions, as requested by the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General. In the light of the above the Government's delegation considers such a move unwarranted. In this connection, the Government of Sudan would like to make it clear there is no need to create a new mediation platform, as it remains fully committed to the Jeddah Platform and the obligations arising from it. Fulfilling those obligations is, therefore, of paramount necessity.
The Government, furthermore, does not recognize, or accept engaging any entity concerning humanitarian aid other than the competent government agency, which is the Humanitarian Aid Commission, and the Supreme Committee for Humanitarian Emergencies. The Government of Sudan once again reiterates its commitment to positive cooperation with the UN in whatever way possible to alleviate the suffering of our people and attaining common understanding on relief delivery to the needy and displaced people and areas affected by the repeated and deliberate attacks of the RSF militia. In fact, the Government of Sudan has practically demonstrated its keeness to deliver humanitarian aid to the Sudanese citizens in areas where the Militia is present. For instance, it has recently facilitated the entry of more than 460 humanitarian relief trucks through the Al-Tineh crossing point.
The Government of Sudan seizes itself of this opportunity to renew its call to all local, regional and international parties to work together to achieve peace and stability in the country. It stresses that its commitment to positive cooperation with these parties is not only a national duty but also part of its commitment to international humanitarian law and human rights.
At the same time, the Government of Sudan calls on the media and all citizens to deal responsibly with the delicate nature of these deliberations, avoiding to be carried away by rumors and misinformation spread by hostile circles. Such a responsible approach will be of great help to the efforts made to achieve the desired goals.
Finally, the Government of Sudan confirms that it is up to the challenge facing the Sudanese people during this difficult junction in their history, notwithstanding evil and orchestrated plots by regional and international circles to undermine the country's security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. Dr. Graham Abdel Qader Minister of Culture and Information Spokesperson of the Government if Sudan.