Brussels: Europe and the Arabs
The European Union strongly condemns the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has resulted in loss of life and immense suffering for the Sudanese people for more than two years and poses a serious threat to stability and security throughout the region. A statement distributed in Brussels following a meeting of EU foreign ministers said, "The European Union expresses its grave concern that Sudan's unity, territorial integrity, and stability are seriously threatened by growing divisions along political and ethnic lines, exacerbated by the emergence of parallel governance structures. The European Union rejects any attempt to divide Sudan.
The EU member states emphasize that the primary responsibility for ending the conflict lies with the leadership of both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, and with those supporting these entities. The EU has set specific demands for all parties to the conflict. These objectives are:
a) Constructive engagement in negotiations aimed at an immediate ceasefire and in a credible and inclusive peace mediation process leading to a sustainable cessation of hostilities;
b) Ensuring rapid, unhindered, and sustained access to humanitarian assistance and the protection of civilians throughout Sudan;
c) Credible commitments to facilitate inclusive, representative, and truly independent civilian governance;
d) Restoring and strengthening the rule of law, accountability, and respect for international law, including international humanitarian law. Human rights law and justice in Sudan.
The European Union stands ready to increase its engagement with the parties to the conflict, provided tangible progress is made towards achieving its key demands.
As co-chair of the Paris and London Conferences on Sudan and its Neighboring Countries, the European Union has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the people of Sudan and playing an active role in addressing the conflict in a comprehensive manner. The EU will remain actively engaged, including at the highest levels, and will act with one voice, promoting inclusive formats and ensuring full coordination with relevant, like-minded actors. The EU will continue to employ, and, where appropriate, intensify, the use of all external policy tools at its disposal—including, where appropriate, targeted restrictive measures—to achieve a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
The EU recognizes the inherent rights of the Sudanese people to freedom, peace, and justice and reaffirms its unwavering commitment to supporting Sudan in its efforts to preserve its unity and territorial integrity, and achieve lasting stability, democracy, and sustainable prosperity.