Sudan’s presidential assistant, Ibrahim Ghandour, has reaffirmed the neutrality of his government in the ongoing conflict in South Sudan, denying providing assistance to rebels loyal to Riek Machar.

He further pointed out that Sudan has suspended debate over the disputed border territories until South Sudan can emerge from its crisis. The official was speaking at the annual forum of East African Workers’ Unions held at Corinthian Hotel in Khartoum on Tuesday.

He emphasized that the Sudan government has been neutral in the ongoing crisis in the neighbouring South Sudan. He insinuated, however, that some foreign powers do not want Sudan to succeed in resolving the ongoing conflict.

“Despite the border dispute and the other outstanding issues between the two countries, Sudan has frozen all the disputes to help its brothers and sisters in South Sudan to heal their wounds and overcome the current crisis,” he was quoted as saying.

Prof. Ghandour also reiterated Sudan government’s commitment to implement the four freedoms agreement signed in September 2012, claiming that this is why South Sudanese who fled the violent conflict are being welcomed in Sudan.