FM Shoukry says Egypt is pushing for renewing peaceful dialogue to resolve Sudan’s situation

CAIRO – 18 April 2013: Egypt’s Foreign minister Sameh Shoukry said, Tuesday that Cairo has been in direct communications with all parties in Sudan encouraging for restraint for cessation of military activity and the return to dialogue.

He added in statements to CNN that Egypt have been in contact constantly with all parties, advocating for a ceasefire.

He noted that Egypt is also pushing for further communication that can lead to renewed peaceful dialogue to resolve the situation.

Shoukry described the relations between Egypt and Sudan as ‘traditional and historic relationship’.

He stressed on president Abdel Fattah al Sisi statements, Monday regarding the conflict in Sudan in which he described it is “an internal one, thereby we maintain impartiality and total commitment to the best conditions for the Sudanese people.”

“It is the best interests of Sudan and its population that drives us and we continue to do so with the best of our abilities.” Shoukry said.

Egypt’s Foreign minister highlighted the importance of the ceasefire and maintaining the best interests of the Sudanese people, avoiding further casualties, along with opening dialogue for a peaceful settlement of the dispute.

Minster Shoukry stressed the importance of all foreign parties to restrain itself and not to involve in the situation.

Shoukry also noted that all concentration in the current state should be focused on encouraging a peaceful dialogue to end the conflict.

“We must concentrate our efforts and we do so in conjuncture with our communications with the various neighboring countries, those who have influence, the United States. Our European friends, the European union, all those who can play an active role in advising in communicating the importance of reaching a peaceful solution to this crisis.” Shoukry said

Regarding the he Egyptian battalions in Sudan, Shoukry said that Egypt in communications related to the safety of its forces and that it is keeping a close watch on the current situation and how it is affecting all Egyptian citizens on Sudanese territories.