During the opening of the 39th African Union summit in Addis Ababa, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addressed pressing regional issues, notably emphasizing the need to cease foreign interference in Sudan. His remarks come as the country grapples with persistent violence and instability caused by various external and internal factors. Guterres's statements highlight a growing concern among international leaders regarding the role of outside powers in exacerbating conflicts within Sudan.

Guterres also underscored the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), hinting at the complexities and interconnectedness of regional conflicts where foreign actors, particularly Rwanda, play a significant role. The situation in Goma, a city in the DRC controlled by the rebel group M23, illustrates the challenges faced by peacekeeping efforts such as MONUSCO. The UN chief's call for sustained political dialogue and cooperation within the region signifies an urgent need for solutions that prioritize the autonomy and agency of local actors.

In the broader context, Guterres's interview represents a strategic call for a collaborative approach to peacebuilding in Africa, emphasizing that external forces should not dictate the trajectory of peace processes. The insistence on non-interference aligns with the African Union's vision for sovereignty while also seeking a comprehensive strategy to end conflicts through regional engagement and support, thus fostering stability and development in Sudan and beyond.