UAE Minister Al Hashemy Urges Humanitarian Access in Sudan Amid Ceasefire Efforts
Ensuring safe passage for aid and protecting civilians are paramount as international mediators push for an end to the conflict in Sudan, according to discussions held Thursday in Geneva. The United Arab Emirates’ Minister of State for International Cooperation, Her Excellency Reem Al Hashemy, met with Tom Fletcher, the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator at the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), to address the escalating crisis.
Sudan Conflict: A Growing Humanitarian Catastrophe
The meeting focused on the urgent need to alleviate the suffering of Sudanese civilians caught in the crossfire. The situation in Sudan has rapidly deteriorated, creating a dire humanitarian crisis that demands immediate attention. Al Hashemy and Fletcher underscored the critical importance of securing an unconditional and immediate ceasefire to allow for the delivery of life-saving assistance.
American Mediation and the Role of the Quartet
Both officials highlighted the significance of ongoing American mediation efforts in Sudan. They also acknowledged the vital work being undertaken by the Quartet – a group of international actors working to resolve the conflict – to achieve a lasting peace. A senior official stated that the Quartet’s involvement is “essential for building trust and facilitating dialogue between the warring parties.”
Prioritizing Humanitarian Access and Civilian Protection
A central theme of the discussion was the necessity of safe, rapid, and unimpeded humanitarian access to all regions of Sudan. Al Hashemy emphasized the need to protect civilians and ensure adherence to international humanitarian law. She also stressed the importance of holding those responsible for atrocities accountable for their actions.
“The protection of civilians must be at the forefront of all efforts,” Al Hashemy reportedly stated. “We must ensure that humanitarian organizations have the space and security to reach those in need.”
Funding Humanitarian Assistance in Sudan
Recognizing the scale of the crisis, Al Hashemy and Fletcher also discussed the need to expand the scope of funding allocated to principled humanitarian assistance. The escalating needs require a significant increase in financial support to provide food, water, shelter, and medical care to the affected population. .
The meeting in Geneva represents a crucial step in coordinating international efforts to address the crisis in Sudan. The focus on mediation, humanitarian access, and accountability signals a commitment to finding a peaceful resolution and alleviating the suffering of the Sudanese people.
