Addis Ababa, 10 July 2023 (TDI): During the Heads of State and Government of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Quartet meeting on Sudan, held in Addis Ababa, significant progress was made towards achieving a lasting resolution to the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
The meeting, attended by Djibouti Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, representatives from South Sudan, and various parties to the conflict, brought together key stakeholders committed to restoring peace and stability in the region.
In a statement issued by the Kenyan President, William Samoei Ruto, expressed optimism about the outcome.
“This step will lead to the resumption of the final phase of the political process, paving the way for the formation of an inclusive transitional process that will lay the foundation for sustainable peace, a stable, and prosperous Sudan”, he stated.
Calling for a ceasefire
President of the Republic of Kenya, recognizing the dire situation in Sudan, where millions of people have been displaced, and over 2,000 lives have been lost, the IGAD Quartet States emphasized the need for urgent action.
President Ruto implored all parties involved in the conflict to declare and observe an unconditional ceasefire.
Considering the dire need for Humanitarian Assistance
Additionally, he called for the establishment of a humanitarian zone, spanning a radius of 30 kilometers in Khartoum, to facilitate the delivery of crucial humanitarian assistance to those in need.
Furthermore, the President of the Republic of Kenya said that the humanitarian crisis in Sudan has reached an unprecedented level of intensity and scale, constituting a harrowing tragedy that demands immediate attention.
The IGAD Quartet’s Heads of State and Government affirmed their commitment to a bold and all-inclusive peace dialogue, aimed at addressing the root causes of the conflict and fostering lasting reconciliation.
Distinguished personalities were in attendance at the meeting, including Prime Minister of Ethiopia Abiy Ahmed, IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu, and the UN Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Martin Griffiths.
Their presence underscored the significance of the gathering and the determination of the international community to support Sudan in its journey toward stability and prosperity.
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The IGAD Quartet States reaffirmed their solidarity with the people of Sudan and their unwavering commitment to finding a comprehensive and sustainable solution to the conflict.
Through collaborative efforts and inclusive dialogue, the IGAD Quartet aims to create the conditions necessary for the resumption of the final phase of the political process, leading to a prosperous and harmonious Sudan.
