Khartoum: The Governor of the Darfur Region, Commander Minni Arko Minnawi, engaged in discussions with a high-ranking British delegation led by Rear Admiral Edward Ahlgren, who serves as the Senior Military Advisor for the Middle East and North Africa at the UK Ministry of Defence. The delegation also comprised British Special Envoy for Sudan, Richard Crowder, and the British Military Attach© based in Cairo.
According to Sudan News Agency, Governor Minnawi provided an overview of the security situation in Sudan and Darfur during the meeting. He highlighted the necessity for the withdrawal of the Al-Dagalo militia from urban areas and government institutions to pave the way for effective peace talks. The governor also emphasized the importance of halting civilian abuses and reinstating police and governance structures as prerequisites for any successful ceasefire or truce. Additionally, he cautioned against the continued backing of the militia by certain countries, particularly pointing to the United Arab Emirates as a detriment to peace efforts.
Richard Crowder reiterated the UK's commitment to supporting Sudan's security and stability, alongside the restoration of essential services and development in the region. He acknowledged the humanitarian toll of the ongoing conflict and urged for a coordinated international response involving the US, UN, European, and African Union efforts to bring an end to the hostilities. Crowder also mentioned that the UK is set to take over the presidency of the UN Security Council next month and plans to co-host a conference with Germany in April aimed at supporting Sudan.