Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister met with US Secretary of State in Washington to discuss peace talks for Sudan amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises. They urged the Sudanese forces to return to negotiations. The meeting also serves as preparation for President Trump’s potential visit to Saudi Arabia, aiming to strengthen economic ties and advocate for regional stability.

On Wednesday, Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, engaged in discussions in Washington to facilitate preparations for a potential visit from US President Donald Trump, marking his first foreign trip of a second term. During a meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the State Department, both diplomats urged the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces to resume peace talks, protect civilians, open humanitarian corridors, and restore civilian governance.

This diplomatic initiative comes in light of recent developments, where the Sudanese army announced its control over Khartoum following ongoing assaults by the paramilitary forces. The conflict has resulted in severe humanitarian crises, as reported by the United Nations, which indicate over 12 million people displaced and widespread famine affecting parts of the nation due to continuous fighting since April 2023.

In previous efforts, the United States under President Joe Biden, alongside Saudi Arabia, has sponsored several rounds of unsuccessful negotiations aimed at achieving a resolution to the ongoing conflict in Sudan. The foreign minister’s visit is also seen as a precursor to Trump’s anticipated trip to Riyadh, which is suggested to be influenced by issues in Gaza, Yemen, and Syria.

Trump has previously indicated plans to visit Saudi Arabia, mirroring a significant diplomatic trip from his first term in 2017. A close source to the Saudi government noted that preparations for Trump’s visit are in progress, emphasizing economic aspects, including a pledge from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in January to invest $600 billion in US trade and business ventures.

Furthermore, during his first term, Trump developed a strong rapport with Riyadh and is expected to advocate for the normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel, a key objective of his foreign policy agenda. Trump also previously navigated controversial discussions surrounding the murder of dissident Jamal Khashoggi by reinforcing the position of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the Saudi government.

The meeting between Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister and US Secretary of State underscores a collaborative effort to renew peace negotiations in Sudan amidst a devastating humanitarian crisis. Furthermore, preparations for President Trump’s impending visit to Riyadh highlight an ongoing commitment to strengthen economic ties and further diplomatic relations within the region. Both nations continue to prioritize the resolution of conflicts and the safety of civilians in Sudan while emphasizing the significance of regional stability for broader international relations.

Original Source: www.al-monitor.com

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