Saudi Vice Minister Joins London Sudan Conference

Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Waleed Elkhereiji participated in the London Sudan Conference on April 15, 2025, on behalf of Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, delivering a speech that underscored Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to resolving the Sudanese crisis through dialogue, humanitarian aid, and respect for Sudan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The conference, held in the United Kingdom, brought together international stakeholders to address the escalating humanitarian and political situation in Sudan. Elkhereiji’s participation reflects the Kingdom’s proactive diplomacy and its pivotal role in mediating conflicts across the region.

During his address, the Vice Minister stressed that the crisis in Sudan not only affects the Sudanese people but also poses a threat to regional stability and both Arab and African national security. His remarks highlighted the broader implications of the conflict, which has displaced millions and created a humanitarian emergency. Saudi Arabia, under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has consistently advocated for peaceful resolutions and provided substantial humanitarian assistance to Sudan. The London conference served as a platform for the Kingdom to reiterate its call for a ceasefire, the protection of civilians, and the preservation of state institutions.

Context and Background

Why has Sudan’s crisis drawn such intense international attention, and what role has Saudi Arabia played since the conflict erupted? Since the outbreak of the crisis in April 2023, Saudi Arabia has led diplomatic initiatives to resolve the Sudanese conflict, including hosting the Jeddah Talks (1) and (2). These talks resulted in both parties signing the Jeddah Declaration on the ‘Commitment to Protect Civilians in Sudan’ and the Short-Term Ceasefire and Humanitarian Arrangements Agreement. The Jeddah Talks (2) also led to the establishment of a humanitarian platform chaired by OCHA, the approval of four confidence-building measures, and agreement on a formula to address military positioning issues. These efforts demonstrate the Kingdom’s sustained engagement and its ability to bring conflicting parties to the negotiating table.

The Jeddah Talks were a landmark achievement in Saudi diplomacy, showcasing the Kingdom’s capacity to facilitate dialogue between warring factions. The agreements reached, particularly the commitment to protect civilians, were crucial steps toward alleviating the suffering of the Sudanese people. However, the implementation of these agreements has faced challenges, underscoring the need for continued international pressure and support. Saudi Arabia has consistently called for the removal of external interference, which it views as a major obstacle to peace. The Kingdom’s approach is rooted in its belief that only a Sudanese-Sudanese political solution can ensure lasting stability and preserve the unity of Sudan.

In addition to hosting talks, Saudi Arabia has provided significant humanitarian aid to Sudan, including food, medical supplies, and shelter. The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) has been at the forefront of these efforts, delivering assistance to affected populations across Sudan. The Kingdom’s humanitarian contributions reflect its commitment to alleviating human suffering and its broader role as a responsible global actor. The London conference provided an opportunity for Saudi Arabia to reaffirm these commitments and to urge the international community to intensify its support for Sudan.

Key Details

What specific measures did Vice Minister Elkhereiji propose to address the crisis in Sudan? In his speech, Elkhereiji outlined several key points, emphasizing the need to intensify efforts to support dialogue, enforce a ceasefire, provide urgent humanitarian assistance, preserve state institutions from collapse, and maintain the unity, territorial integrity, and resources of Sudan. He stated: “Our collective responsibility compels us to intensify efforts to support dialogue, enforce a ceasefire, provide urgent humanitarian assistance, preserve state institutions from collapse, and maintain the unity, territorial integrity, and resources of Sudan.” This comprehensive approach addresses both the immediate humanitarian needs and the long-term political stability of the country.

Elkhereiji also highlighted the importance of halting external support to the conflicting parties, stating: “Halting external support to the conflicting parties is essential to create a genuine environment for a ceasefire and pave the way for a comprehensive political solution. Neutralizing foreign interference facilitates humanitarian operations, especially the opening of safe corridors to ensure aid reaches those in need across Sudan without delay. We have seen the positive impact of opening the Adre border crossing.” The Adre border crossing, which was reopened through diplomatic efforts, has allowed humanitarian aid to reach parts of Sudan that were previously inaccessible, demonstrating the tangible benefits of Saudi-led initiatives.

Furthermore, the Vice Minister warned against calls to form a parallel government or any alternative entity, stating: “The Kingdom cautions against calls to form a parallel government or any alternative entity, as these are illegitimate attempts that threaten the political process, deepen divisions, and obstruct efforts toward a comprehensive national solution.” He reaffirmed the Kingdom’s firm position that the resolution to the crisis must be a Sudanese-Sudanese political solution that respects Sudan’s sovereignty and unity and supports its state institutions. This stance aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader policy of supporting legitimate governments and opposing actions that undermine stability.

International and Regional Impact

How does Saudi Arabia’s mediation in Sudan affect regional stability and international relations? Saudi Arabia’s involvement in the Sudanese crisis is part of its broader efforts to promote peace and stability in the Arab and African regions. The Kingdom’s diplomatic initiatives have been widely recognized by the international community, including the United Nations and the African Union. By hosting the Jeddah Talks, Saudi Arabia demonstrated its ability to convene conflicting parties and facilitate dialogue, a role that enhances its standing as a regional leader and a responsible global partner. The London conference further solidified this role, as Elkhereiji’s participation underscored the Kingdom’s commitment to multilateral cooperation.

The crisis in Sudan has significant implications for regional security, particularly given Sudan’s strategic location and its membership in both the Arab League and the African Union. Instability in Sudan could spill over into neighboring countries, exacerbating existing tensions and creating new humanitarian challenges. Saudi Arabia’s efforts to mediate and provide aid are therefore not only a moral imperative but also a strategic necessity. The Kingdom’s call to halt external support to conflicting parties is particularly important, as foreign interference has been identified as a key factor prolonging the conflict. By neutralizing such interference, Saudi Arabia aims to create conditions conducive to a lasting peace.

Economic and Strategic Significance

What economic and strategic interests does Saudi Arabia have in resolving the Sudanese crisis? Saudi Arabia’s economic and strategic interests in Sudan are multifaceted. Sudan is rich in natural resources, including gold, oil, and agricultural land, and stability there is crucial for regional trade and investment. The Kingdom has long-standing ties with Sudan, and a peaceful, stable Sudan would open opportunities for economic cooperation, including in agriculture, mining, and infrastructure. Moreover, Sudan’s stability is essential for the security of the Red Sea region, a vital artery for global trade and a focus of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic diversification plans.

From a strategic perspective, Saudi Arabia’s mediation efforts enhance its soft power and reinforce its position as a key player in African and Arab affairs. By taking a leading role in resolving the Sudanese crisis, the Kingdom demonstrates its commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter and its willingness to shoulder responsibilities for international peace and security. This aligns with Vision 2030’s goal of positioning Saudi Arabia as a global hub for diplomacy and investment. Furthermore, the Kingdom’s humanitarian aid to Sudan, channeled through KSrelief, showcases its dedication to sustainable development and poverty alleviation, which are core components of its foreign policy.

Vision 2030 Alignment

How does Saudi Arabia’s engagement in Sudan reflect the objectives of Vision 2030? Saudi Arabia’s active diplomacy and humanitarian efforts in Sudan are a direct manifestation of Vision 2030’s strategic objectives, particularly in the areas of foreign policy, economic diversification, and global engagement. Vision 2030 emphasizes the Kingdom’s role as a pivotal player in the global economy and a bridge between continents. By mediating in Sudan, Saudi Arabia strengthens its diplomatic networks, fosters regional stability, and creates an environment conducive to trade and investment. These efforts also align with the Vision’s focus on sustainable development and humanitarian relief, as the Kingdom continues to provide aid to those in need.

In conclusion, Vice Minister Elkhereiji’s participation in the London Sudan Conference highlights Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to peace, stability, and humanitarian principles. The Kingdom’s leadership in the Jeddah Talks, its calls for a ceasefire and the protection of civilians, and its opposition to parallel governments all reflect a coherent and principled approach to the crisis. As Saudi Arabia continues to advance its Vision 2030 goals, its role in resolving conflicts like that in Sudan will remain a cornerstone of its foreign policy. The international community must rally behind these efforts to ensure a peaceful and prosperous future for Sudan and the broader region.

20 Questions

Q1. Who participated in the London Sudan Conference on behalf of Saudi Arabia?

A1. Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Waleed Elkhereiji participated on behalf of Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah.

Q2. When did the London Sudan Conference take place?

A2. The conference was held on April 15, 2025, in London, United Kingdom.

Q3. What did Vice Minister Elkhereiji emphasize about the crisis in Sudan?

A3. He stressed that the crisis affects not only the Sudanese people but also poses a threat to regional stability and Arab and African national security.

Q4. What diplomatic initiatives has Saudi Arabia led to resolve the Sudanese crisis?

A4. Saudi Arabia hosted the Jeddah Talks (1) and (2), which resulted in the Jeddah Declaration and a short-term ceasefire agreement.

Q5. What was the outcome of the Jeddah Talks (2)?

A5. It led to the establishment of a humanitarian platform chaired by OCHA, approval of four confidence-building measures, and agreement on military positioning issues.

Q6. Why does Saudi Arabia oppose external support to conflicting parties in Sudan?

A6. External support prolongs the conflict; halting it creates a genuine environment for a ceasefire and a comprehensive political solution.

Q7. What positive impact did the opening of the Adre border crossing have?

A7. It allowed humanitarian aid to reach those in need across Sudan without delay, demonstrating the benefits of Saudi-led initiatives.

Q8. What warning did Vice Minister Elkhereiji issue regarding parallel governments?

A8. He warned that forming a parallel government or alternative entity is illegitimate and threatens the political process and national unity.

Q9. What is Saudi Arabia’s firm position on resolving the Sudanese crisis?

A9. The resolution must be a Sudanese-Sudanese political solution that respects Sudan’s sovereignty, unity, and state institutions.

Q10. How does Saudi Arabia’s mediation in Sudan affect regional stability?

A10. It enhances regional security by preventing spillover effects and promoting peace, which is vital for the Red Sea region and global trade.

Q11. What economic interests does Saudi Arabia have in Sudan?

A11. Sudan’s natural resources and stability are crucial for regional trade, investment, and the security of the Red Sea, aligning with Vision 2030.

Q12. How does Saudi Arabia’s role in Sudan align with Vision 2030?

A12. It reflects Vision 2030’s goals of global engagement, economic diversification, and sustainable development through diplomacy and humanitarian aid.

Q13. What humanitarian aid has Saudi Arabia provided to Sudan?

A13. Saudi Arabia, through KSrelief, has delivered food, medical supplies, and shelter to affected populations across Sudan.

Q14. What did the Jeddah Declaration aim to achieve?

A14. It committed parties to protect civilians in Sudan, a crucial step toward alleviating suffering and building trust.

Q15. How does Saudi Arabia view foreign interference in Sudan?

A15. Saudi Arabia views foreign interference as a major obstacle to peace, prolonging the conflict and hindering humanitarian operations.

Q16. What role did OCHA play in the Jeddah Talks (2)?

A16. OCHA chaired the humanitarian platform established to coordinate aid delivery and support confidence-building measures.

Q17. What are the four confidence-building measures approved in Jeddah Talks (2)?

A17. The measures include facilitating humanitarian access, protecting civilians, and addressing military positioning issues to build trust.

Q18. How does Saudi Arabia’s diplomacy in Sudan enhance its global standing?

A18. It showcases the Kingdom’s ability to mediate conflicts, reinforcing its role as a responsible global partner and regional leader.

Q19. What is the significance of the Adre border crossing for humanitarian aid?

A19. It serves as a vital corridor for aid delivery, ensuring that assistance reaches conflict-affected areas in Sudan efficiently.

Q20. What is the ultimate goal of Saudi Arabia’s efforts in Sudan?

A20. The ultimate goal is a peaceful, stable Sudan that respects sovereignty and unity, contributing to regional and global security.

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