Participants at an international conference organized by the United Nations and the Norwegian government have rejected any attempts to undermine the democratic transition in Sudan.
The United Nations and Norway convened a high-level meeting on Sudan on September 30, on the sidelines of the 76th UN General Assembly in New York.
Delegations from 24 member states and eight international and regional organizations attended the meeting.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres recognized the “remarkable achievements and resilience of the Sudanese people, and its transitional government” since the overthrow of president Omar al-Bashir in 2019.
“We are also here to highlight the importance of the international community investing in these vital efforts through concrete action and delivery of pledges,” Guterres said in his opening speech.
Sudan continues to confront complex security challenges, he stressed, denouncing the failed attempted coup on September 21, describing it as “a reminder of persistent threats.”
He hailed the Sudanese people’s determination in light of this historic transition that seeks to achieve their aspirations for an inclusive, peaceful, prosperous and democratic future.
He urged all parties to respect the transition, stressing that “any effort to undermine it would threaten the hard-earned progress in the political and economic fields.”
“The transitional government and its partners have the opportunity to help realize the vision of millions of Sudanese men and women – and most especially Sudanese youth – who risked their lives for democracy and peace. We have an obligation to support these efforts.”
The Juba Peace Agreement, signed almost a year ago, paves the way for ending Sudan’s long‑standing and devastating conflicts, he said.
“As part of the nationally owned peace process, important work is underway to implement the agreement and to reach a deal with non-signatory armed movements,” he added.
Guterres further affirmed that the Mission, United Nations country team, and the entire UN family remain fully committed to the success of Sudan’s political transition, socioeconomic recovery and the achievement of sustainable peace and inclusive development.
He pointed out that vital institutions such as the Transitional Legislative Council will be “crucial.”
The drafting of a constitution and setting the path for elections represent significant opportunities for further progress, he noted, considering that women’s inclusion and meaningful participation will benefit the future of all Sudanese.
Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok highlighted the accomplishments and challenges of the Sudanese transition process.
He noted its legislative and economic reform efforts that have allowed Sudan to begin receiving debt relief under the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative and move it towards economic progress and improved conditions for investment.
The premier also highlighted ongoing efforts to implement the Juba Peace Agreement, as well as efforts to reach an agreement with non-signatory armed movements.
