Title: Diplomacy in action: General Abdel Fattah al-Burhane’s travels fuel rumors of negotiations in Sudan
Introduction :
In a context of war which has pitted the troops of General Abdel Fattah al-Burhane against the paramilitaries of the Rapid Support Forces (FSR) since mid-April, the general’s recent diplomatic trips have raised hopes for a negotiated resolution of the crisis. By traveling to Egypt and South Sudan, the Sudanese leader shows his desire to find a quick political solution, despite his warmongering rhetoric. These trips, which also have a symbolic dimension, bear witness to ongoing political and diplomatic action.
Significant trips:
General Abdel Fattah al-Burhane was first received in Egypt by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, his main international ally. This country has offered to play the role of mediator between the various parties involved in the Sudanese conflict. Subsequently, the Sudanese leader flew to South Sudan, a country which played a key role in the negotiations leading to a peace agreement in 2020. These two trips allow Abdel Fattah al-Burhane to affirm his authority as President of the Sovereignty Council, despite the assault on his headquarters by the FSR.
The sign of a willingness to negotiate:
If the general held a martial speech in front of his soldiers before his departure, affirming the need to concentrate on the war, his travels show that he is also engaged in a political and diplomatic approach. According to Muhammad Khalifa al-Siddiq, professor of political science at the International University of Africa in Khartoum, these movements indicate the will of Abdel Fattah al-Burhane to find a quick political solution, given the complexity of the situation on the ground. The trip to South Sudan is of particular significance, as that country is familiar with the complexities of the Sudanese crisis and has played a mediating role in the past.
Outlook:
General al-Burhane’s upcoming trip to New York for the annual UN General Assembly is seen as a major step forward for the country. If he shows positive intentions to end the war, this meeting could unblock certain humanitarian and political issues. By meeting with the UN Secretary General and other influential leaders, the Sudanese leader has the opportunity to accelerate mediation efforts and find a peaceful solution to the crisis.
Conclusion :
General Abdel Fattah al-Burhane’s recent diplomatic trips to Egypt and South Sudan are fueling rumors of ongoing negotiations to end the war in Sudan. Despite belligerent rhetoric, these trips bear witness to a desire to find a rapid political solution and mark the beginning of political and diplomatic action.. The trip to New York for the United Nations General Assembly could be a major step forward for the country in terms of resolving the crisis.