Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on Tuesday made an appeal to get neighboring Sudan off the US’ list of countries deemed sponsors of terrorism, reported Arab News.
While addressing world leaders during his speech at the UN General Assembly, El-Sisi said taking Sudan off the list would help the country tackle economic problems and reclaim the position it deserves among the international family.
Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani also called for Sudan to be taken off the United States’ list of countries that sponsor terrorism in his speech presented before the world leaders.
“We are confident that the Sudanese people are capable of moving beyond this sensitive transitional phase,” al-Thani said.
Sudan has been on the US list of terrorism-sponsoring countries since 1993. The Sudanese government claims getting off from the list is crucial to rebuilding the country after years of sanctions. The US administration under the leadership of President Obama began a process to take Sudan off the list. But, the procedure was put on hold when mass protests erupted in December against former ruler Omar Al-Bashir. The military ousted him in April.
Notably, Sudan’s worsening economic situation was the key trigger for nationwide protests that finally led to the ouster of Bashir.
Meanwhile, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday said China will always support Sudan’s efforts to safeguard national sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, and continue to provide assistance to Sudan and strengthen bilateral cooperation in various fields.
During his meeting with Sudan Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok at the headquarters of the United Nations, Wang said Sudan is at a new stage of development and its joint transition process has made progress. He added that change and progress can only be achieved if national stability is maintained.
“We hope Sudan can realize national peace, stability, and development at an early date,” said Wang.
