A London conference aimed at forging a path to end Sudan’s two-year conflict concluded without a final agreement due to discord among key Arab powers.
The UAE expressed disappointment over the lack of consensus, emphasising the urgent need for Sudan to transition to an independent civilian-led government.
Sources revealed disagreements between the UAE, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia regarding Sudan’s future governance.
The general Abdel Fattah al Burhan-led government had protested the inclusion of the UAE, accusing it of backing the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), allegations the UAE denies.
Egypt, a strong ally of al-Burhan’s army, and Saudi Arabia, which previously hosted unsuccessful peace talks, also participated in the summit.
Differing views emerged over prioritising a civilian government versus immediately ending the war and deferring governance decisions.
One diplomat noted that the disagreement centred on the wording concerning state institutions, with Egypt advocating for language seen by others, including the UAE, as legitimising al-Burhan’s regime.
Saudi Arabia reportedly supported Egypt’s stance.
The failure to reach a joint communique underscores the deep divisions hindering efforts to resolve the conflict, which has displaced 13 million people and caused widespread suffering.