In a significant development, a Sudanese delegation led by Foreign Minister Mohiedin Salem participated in the ministerial meetings of the African Union’s Peace and Security Council held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This marks the first such engagement in over four years, indicating a pivotal moment for Sudan and its international relations. The interim draft statement from the council reaffirms the African Union's dedication to maintaining the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Sudan, rejecting any alternative entities or arrangements that could undermine the legitimacy of the Sudanese state.

The council's firm call for an immediate ceasefire underscores the gravity of the ongoing conflict affecting Sudan, particularly in regions like Darfur. Alongside this, the Peace and Security Council condemned the violent escalations and human rights violations against civilians in El Fasher, North Darfur. The emphasis on stopping external interventions is also a crucial aspect, reflecting the AU’s stance on preserving internal sovereignty and addressing the conflict without external influence, which could complicate an already volatile situation.

This engagement presents both an opportunity and a challenge for Sudan as the country navigates its crisis. The commitment to ceasefire and dialogue could encourage peace processes, but addressing the humanitarian needs and restoring stability will require concerted efforts from both the Sudanese authorities and the international community. The context provided by the AU's involvement suggests a potential pathway toward resolving some of the deep-seated issues that have plagued Sudan for years, but the effectiveness will largely depend on the actions taken following this meeting and the responses from other stakeholders involved in the region.