In the wake of the devastating conflict that erupted in Sudan in April 2023, Egypt has become the largest host for Sudanese refugees.
Badr AbdelAty, Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, emphasized this during a joint press conference with Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).
Egypt has a long history of supporting its Sudanese neighbors, a commitment that has intensified since the outbreak of war in Sudan last year.
AbdelAty highlighted Egypt’s recent efforts to facilitate peace, including hosting the first comprehensive forum for Sudanese political forces.
This conference marked the first time various political and civil groups from Sudan gathered in one place, aiming to foster unity and work together under the banner “Together for Stopping the War.”
AbdelAty reiterated Egypt’s clear agenda: maintaining Sudan’s unity, territorial integrity, and sovereignty while safeguarding the lives of Sudanese civilians.
The conference, held without external interference, underscored Egypt’s stance that the peace process should be an entirely Sudanese endeavor.
During the conference, Egypt stressed the importance of an immediate ceasefire and agreed with Sudanese factions on the necessity of halting the influx of weapons into Sudan.
AbdelAty also highlighted Egypt’s open borders policy, ensuring cooperation with regional and international relief organizations to provide aid to the Sudanese people.
Egypt, facing its economic challenges, continues to host a significant number of Sudanese refugees.
AbdelAty called on the international community to honor their commitments made during the Paris Conference, urging donor countries to allocate substantial support to Sudan’s neighboring countries, primarily Egypt. This support is crucial for sustaining humanitarian, health, and medical aid efforts.
The minister urged Sudanese leaders to prioritize national interests over personal gains, emphasizing their historical responsibility towards their country and people.
The appreciation from conference participants reflected Egypt’s significant political and humanitarian efforts.
