UAE minister Lana Nusssibeh says Sudan is 'too big to fail' and explains Emirati peace efforts
Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, the UAE Assistant Minister for Political Affairs and FM Envoy, spoke with Becky Anderson, host of CNNConnect and CNN Abu Dhabi Managing Editor, about the Gulf state's efforts to bring peace to Sudan. Brutal fighting has plagued Sudan for over a year, and the UAE has been advocating for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, emphasizing the necessity of returning to negotiations for a peaceful resolution.
The UAE is a major provider of humanitarian aid to Sudan, having contributed over $3.5 billion in the past decade to improve living conditions and safety for displaced persons and refugees.
Lana Nusseibeh's Call for Urgent Action
In her interview with Becky Anderson, Lana Nusseibeh urged for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan, access for humanitarian aid, and a political process leading to civilian transition. She called for urgent international action, emphasizing the need for all parties to engage in talks and include the civilian population in discussions about Sudan's future. Nusseibeh highlighted the importance of scaling up humanitarian aid and condemned the weaponization of food aid, drawing parallels to Gaza. She stressed that Sudanese civilians have conveyed a clear message about their aspirations for the country's future.
Regional Stability at Risk
Nusseibeh expressed concerns about the conflict's potential to destabilize the region, stating, "Sudan is too big to fail. It could destabilize neighboring countries in the Horn of Africa and impact the regional security of the Middle East."
The UAE recently pledged $30 million to support UNHCR's operations in Sudan and neighboring countries, part of a larger $70 million commitment to assist Sudanese people through UN agencies and humanitarian organizations. This contribution is part of the UAE's $100 million pledge made earlier this year at the "International Humanitarian Conference for Sudan and Neighbouring Countries."
UAE Aid Amid the Humanitarian Crisis
The UAE Foreign Ministry highlighted the $70 million funding aimed at preventing further deterioration of the humanitarian situation in Sudan, as part of a comprehensive assistance strategy. Since the crisis began, the UAE has established an air bridge, delivering tonnes of food and medical supplies via numerous relief planes and a ship. The UAE has also supported refugee camps in Chad and built field hospitals. Both UN relief chief Martin Griffiths and UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi have expressed gratitude for the UAE's support.
Lana Nusseibeh's call for action underscores the urgency of addressing the Sudan crisis and the UAE's ongoing commitment to humanitarian efforts in the region.
