Cairo: Egypt and Sudan issued a joint statement following political consultations held in Cairo, focusing on enhancing cooperation across various sectors. The discussions underscored the significance of building on the outcomes of the first Egyptian-Sudanese business forum held in November, while also emphasizing strategic preparation for the upcoming second forum. The aim is for Egypt to play a pivotal role in Sudan’s reconstruction, bolstering trade exchanges and joint investments between the two nations.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the talks were led by the foreign ministers of both countries, who highlighted the need to refine existing agreements, memoranda of understanding, protocols, and executive programs to ensure clarity and precision. The ministers also agreed to establish a timeline for convening specialized joint committees to further these goals.

A significant portion of the dialogue focused on the ongoing armed conflict in Sudan. Both parties emphasized the importance of maintaining Sudan’s sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, and state institutions, including the Armed Forces, while rejecting any foreign interventions in the country’s internal matters. They advocated for resolving the crisis through a uniquely Sudanese process.

The Sudanese delegation expressed gratitude to Egypt for accommodating displaced Sudanese, while the Egyptian delegation acknowledged Sudan’s efforts to facilitate humanitarian aid by setting up warehouses for managing aid shipments. Additionally, both countries welcomed initiatives to enhance electricity and road connectivity, with Egypt rehabilitating Sudan’s Wadi Halfa Harbor to support inland transportation.

Furthermore, the delegations committed to safeguarding their water rights against unilateral actions and restoring collaborative relations among Nile Basin countries. They also agreed on security coordination in the Red Sea region.

On a regional scale, the Egyptian and Sudanese representatives voiced opposition to the marginalization of the Palestinian Cause and supported a comprehensive political process in Syria to maintain its territorial integrity. They welcomed the election of a president in Lebanon, expressing their support for the country’s stability.