U.N. envoy to Sudan Pekka Haavisto on Sunday called for progress toward an “inclusive and strategic” political process to help end the country’s war.
Haavisto made the remarks during talks in Khartoum with army chief and Sovereign Council Chairman Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, according to a statement issued by the council.
The two discussed the security and political situation in Sudan, efforts to strengthen stability and prospects for a comprehensive peace, the statement said.
“I conveyed important messages related to de-escalation and the protection of civilians,” Haavisto was quoted as saying.
He also voiced hope that continued talks could lead to the exchange of prisoners and civilian detainees held by the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
“Dialogue is the path to sustainable peace,” Haavisto said, adding that the United Nations would work with Sudanese stakeholders and partners in the five-member mechanism to advance a political process reflecting the aspirations of the Sudanese people.
The mechanism comprises the United Nations, African Union, European Union, Arab League and Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).
Haavisto arrived in Sudan on Friday for talks with the parties involved in the conflict on efforts to de-escalate fighting and protect civilians.
On Aug. 30, Sudan’s Dialogue Preparatory Committee launched an independent initiative aimed at facilitating consultations and helping lay the groundwork for ending the war and building broader national consensus.
Sudan has been at war since April 2023, when fighting erupted between the army and the RSF. The conflict has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced about 13 million, according to U.N. and international estimates.
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