Sudanese FM says relations with Iran are not directed

February 14, 2024 (PORT SUDAN) – Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Al-Sadiq reaffirmed the neutrality of his country’s newly restored diplomatic relations with Iran, stating that the move is “normal” and not intended to target any specific nation or group.

Meeting with ambassadors in Port Sudan on Wednesday, Al-Sadiq briefed them on Sudan’s latest military and political developments, including ongoing efforts towards peaceful solutions to the nation’s crisis.

He also discussed his recent visit to Iran, emphasizing that the decision to resume diplomatic relations “should not raise any concerns.”

“Relations between countries are not static,” Al-Sadiq said, according to the Sudan News Agency. “This resumption follows a period of separation, and it is a normal course of action in international diplomacy.”

He clarified that Sudan’s ties with Iran “do not target any specific country, group, or regional or international system. It is simply a natural development in the relationship between two nations and a renewal of long-standing cooperation in economic, development, and investment sectors.”

This clarification comes after Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi met with Minister Al-Sadiq in Tehran on February 5th. The encounter marked the first official Sudanese visit to Iran since the two countries’ diplomatic rift ended after seven years.

In October 2023, the Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the resumption of diplomatic relations with Iran following months of high-level discussions. Both nations agreed to open their respective embassies and exchange official delegations to explore avenues for expanding their collaboration(.

(ST)