July 20, 2024 (PORT SUDAN) – The Sudanese government expressed willingness to build on the positive outcomes of the Geneva talks to improve the humanitarian situation in the country following indirect talks with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). However, it reiterates its demand for the RSF to fulfil the Jeddah humanitarian agreement. The government delegation, led by Humanitarian Aid Commissioner Salwa Adam Baneya, engaged in discussions with the RSF from July 11th to 19th in Geneva, facilitated by UN Special Envoy Ramtane Lamamra. Although a formal agreement wasn’t reached, the RSF offered unilateral commitments on civilian protection and facilitating humanitarian access. In a statement released on Saturday, Baneya highlighted the constructive nature of the talks, stating, “The Geneva discussions offered a promising foundation for addressing the humanitarian crisis in Sudan.” The humanitarian official detailed the government delegation’s active participation, including technical discussions on international funding, assessments, aid priorities, and logistics for delivering relief supplies. However, she reiterated the government’s stance that civilian protection discussions should continue within the Jeddah framework and emphasized the importance of implementing the May 2023 Jeddah Declaration. Also, Baniya reaffirmed that Sudan remains committed to collaborating with the UN to alleviate the suffering of its people. …

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