Sudan’s army chief, General Abdel-Fattah al-Burhan, has travelled to Jeddah for high-level talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as the country’s civil war enters its fourth year. According to the Saudi Press Agency, the discussions focused on “security and stability” in Sudan, as well as efforts to preserve its sovereignty amid the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Saudi Arabia has maintained close ties with the SAF, offering both political backing and financial support. It has also played a central mediating role in peace efforts alongside the United States, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates.
The UAE has faced repeated accusations of supporting the RSF with funding and weapons—allegations it strongly denies. Beyond the conflict, Riyadh is also preparing to host a Sudanese-Saudi business forum in June aimed at addressing investment barriers and strengthening economic ties. Trade between the two countries is estimated at around $8 billion, largely driven by Saudi imports of livestock and agricultural products. Saudi investments in Sudan exceed $35 billion, with agriculture accounting for the bulk of capital inflows. The latest diplomatic engagement comes as regional powers intensify efforts to stabilize Sudan while also safeguarding their economic and strategic interests in the country.
