Türkiye ready to contribute to peace efforts in Sudan, says Turkish ambassador

Türkiye has expressed its readiness to assist in peace efforts in Sudan, where ongoing conflict between the military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has claimed around 19,000 lives over the past 17 months.

In a recent interview, Türkiye’s Ambassador to Sudan Fatih Yildiz emphasized that Türkiye is prepared to take on any role to help end the crisis, in line with the will of the Sudanese people and government.

Ambassador Yildiz highlights Türkiye’s support in Sudan

“We are ready to contribute to the establishment of peace and the end of the crisis in Sudan, under any framework agreed upon by the Sudanese people and government,” Ambassador Yildiz told Anadolu Agency.

Yildiz, who began his mission amid these hostilities, stressed the significance of Türkiye’s presence in Port Sudan, one of only 12 countries represented at the ambassadorial level in the city. He added that Sudan’s government and people appreciate Türkiye’s ongoing support during this challenging period.

Türkiye’s humanitarian aid and agricultural assistance plans for Sudan

Ambassador Yildiz highlighted the humanitarian crisis caused not only by displacement but also by the destruction of livelihoods. Türkiye, which has consistently provided aid to Sudan, sent its latest shipment in July and is now preparing to send additional humanitarian assistance, particularly after recent floods in the northern part of the country.

“In addition to the ongoing conflict, the country has been dealing with a flood disaster since June. We have regularly sent aid, with the most recent shipment in July. We have started preparations to bring in new humanitarian aid following the floods,” Yildiz stated.

He also pointed out that about 50% of the country’s largest agricultural project, Gezira, remains under the control of the RSF. Yildiz emphasized that agricultural assistance would be vital to helping Sudan regain self-sufficiency. “We need to help Sudan not only with humanitarian aid but also in areas where we have strong bilateral relations, such as agriculture,” he noted.

Türkiye’s unique role as a trusted actor in Sudan

Yildiz emphasized Türkiye’s distinct position as a trusted and impartial actor in Sudan. He underscored that Türkiye has never imposed its will on the Sudanese people or government, preferring to work through mutual agreement.

“One of the aspects that sets Türkiye apart is that we have the trust of almost every faction in Sudan. We have conveyed our readiness to undertake any role necessary, both to the Sudanese government and to international actors. But Türkiye’s approach is never one of imposition,” Yildiz said.

He reiterated Türkiye’s commitment to standing by the Sudanese people during this difficult time and expressed hope that Türkiye could contribute further to the peace process.

Turkish humanitarian organizations poised for continued assistance

Despite the ongoing conflict, Turkish humanitarian organizations such as the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) and the Yunus Emre Institute (YEE) remain committed to their missions in Sudan. Ambassador Yildiz noted that efforts are underway to restore their operations and deliver much-needed aid and services.

“We aim to produce projects that demonstrate Türkiye’s commitment to Sudan, even amid the conflict,” Yildiz explained, adding that Sudan is not receiving the international attention it deserves, given the scale of the crisis.

Sudan’s youth demand education opportunities amid ongoing conflict

Yildiz also highlighted the plight of Sudanese youth, who have been unable to pursue higher education due to the instability. He expressed Türkiye’s desire to continue offering educational opportunities through its scholarship programs.

“These demands are entirely justified, especially considering the current circumstances. We want to continue offering scholarships to Sudanese youth, just as we did before the conflict,” he said.

Yildiz concluded by reaffirming Türkiye’s commitment to maintaining strong relations with Sudan, despite the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict.