Reports emerging from Sudan indicate a significant escalation in diplomatic tensions between the Sudanese government and international powers. The Sudanese government has issued a stern warning that it may take action and “re-examine” relations with countries organizing and sponsoring the ministerial conference on Sudanese affairs, which is set to begin this Wednesday in the German capital, Berlin.
This move comes after Khartoum officially rejected the conference, accusing the organizers of failing to consult the government on preparations and alleging a “clear violation” of national sovereignty.
In an official note submitted to the German Foreign Ministry last Friday, the Sudanese government stated it would “categorically reject” any international platform that discusses the country’s future while excluding its official government.
The Berlin Conference—jointly organized by Germany, France, the United Kingdom, the United States, the European Union, and the African Union—aims to coordinate peace efforts and address the humanitarian crisis as the conflict enters its fourth year.
However, the exclusion of the Sudanese government from the summit, which invites international diplomats, NGOs, and civil society groups, has angered the leadership based in Port Sudan.
Malik Agar, Deputy Chairman of the Sovereign Council, stated that the conference “goes against the interests and aspirations of the Sudanese people.” He emphasized that “Sudan’s problems and solutions must be determined by the Sudanese themselves,” adding that the “guardian-like approach” displayed at the Berlin Conference may force Sudan to re-evaluate its relations with the organizing countries based on the principles of dialogue and mutual benefit.
Sudan’s Ambassador to Berlin, Ilham Ibrahim Mohamed Ahmed, expressed similar sentiments after delivering the official letter of protest. She warned that treating the Sudanese government and “terrorist militias” as equals on the international stage undermines the legitimacy of state institutions.
Ambassador Ahmed further argued that inviting countries “directly or indirectly involved in the war” to the conference further damages the event’s credibility. She asserted that any attempt to report on or discuss Sudan without the participation of the government is a violation of national sovereignty and established diplomatic norms.
