Saudi Arabia: Jeddah talks will focus on an effective ceasefire

The Saudi Foreign Ministry confirmed that representatives of the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces signed a declaration of commitment to protect civilians in Sudan, noting that the two sides will abide by international humanitarian law and human rights law in facilitating humanitarian work to meet the urgent needs of civilians.

The statement, issued today, Friday, added that the declaration of commitment will direct the activity of the two forces to enable the safe delivery of humanitarian aid, restore basic services, withdraw forces from hospitals and clinics, and allow the dead to be respectfully buried.

He also pointed out that, following the signing, the Jeddah talks will focus on reaching an agreement on an effective ceasefire for a period of up to ten days, in order to facilitate these activities.

The security measures will include a ceasefire monitoring mechanism backed by the United States, Saudi Arabia and the international community.

In line with the incremental approach adopted and agreed upon by the parties, the Jeddah talks will address proposed arrangements for subsequent talks – with Sudanese civilians and regional and international partners – on a permanent cessation of hostilities.

Also, in consultation with the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, the facilitators look forward to engaging in discussions with Sudanese civilians and regional and international partners in the next rounds of talks.

Jeddah agreement

It is noteworthy that the representatives of the Army and the Rapid Support Forces signed a preliminary agreement on Thursday evening, during which they affirmed their abstention from any attack that would cause civilian harm.

They also agreed that the interests of the Sudanese people are a priority for them, and that the Sudanese army and Rapid Support Forces would take all precautions to spare civilians any harm.
and allow all civilians in Sudan to leave the besieged and hostile areas.

In addition to the obligation to evacuate, respect public and private facilities in Sudan, and protect medical workers and public facilities in Sudan.
and the adoption of simple and rapid procedures for humanitarian relief operations in Sudan.

Civilian protection

and a commitment to protect the needs and necessities for civilian survival in Sudan.

Also adhere to regular humanitarian pauses and quiet days, as needed in Sudan.

Both the army and the Rapid Support Forces had put forward some demands and conditions, but the mediation postponed them to limiting the agreement to a cease-fire and the opening of safe passages for the delivery of humanitarian aid.