Embassy Of Saudi Arabia Inaugurates Consular Section In Sudan.
By Timilehin Ajibade
His Excellency, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Waleed A. Elkhereiji has inaugurated the Consular Section at the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Sudan, in the presence of His Excellency, Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Sudan, Ali Youssef Al-Sharif.
The diplomatic history between Saudi Arabia and Sudan is complex and has seen its fair share of ups and downs. Initially, the two countries had a strong historical relationship, given their shared Arab heritage. However, their relationship has often been marked by divisions and conflicts. In the 1970s, Sudan’s stance during the Gulf War fueled anger among other Arab countries, including Saudi Arabia, which was defending Kuwait against Iraq. As a result, Saudi Arabia imposed economic sanctions on Sudan and reduced diplomatic ties.
In the 1990s, Sudan’s relationship with Saudi Arabia became even more strained, with Saudi Arabia accusing Sudan of being a client state of Iran. Saudi Arabia also provided support to the Darfur rebels and called for the separation of South Sudan, which was eventually achieved in 2011. However, in recent years, the two countries have made efforts to restore their relationship, particularly after Sudan’s decision to send troops to fight in Yemen alongside Saudi forces.
The relationship between Saudi Arabia and Sudan has also been influenced by other regional players, such as Egypt and the United Arab Emirates. Egypt has traditionally been a key player in Sudanese politics, and its support for certain factions has often put it at odds with Saudi Arabia. The UAE, on the other hand, has provided significant financial and military support to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces, which has contributed to the ongoing conflict in the country.
Despite these challenges, Saudi Arabia has continued to engage with Sudan, and the two countries have cooperated on various issues, including counter-terrorism and regional security. In 2021, Saudi Arabia even granted Sudan $20 million to help the country pay off its debt to the International Monetary Fund.
It’s worth noting that Sudan’s foreign relations are not limited to Saudi Arabia, and the country has also engaged with other regional and international players, including the African Union, the Arab League, and the United Nations. Sudan has been an active member of these organizations and has sought to promote its interests and resolve regional conflicts through diplomatic means .
In recent years, the conflict in Sudan has drawn international attention, and there have been calls for greater engagement from the United States and other global powers to help resolve the crisis. The US has imposed sanctions on Sudanese officials and entities, and there have been efforts to promote a peaceful in resolution to the conflict through dialogue and negotiation .
