Sudan and African Union Discuss Return of Khartoum Liaison Office Amid Peace Efforts

KHARTOUM, July 9, 2026 - Sudan’s Sovereign Council Chairman and army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has held talks with African Union envoy Mohamed Belaiche on efforts to advance peace, address obstacles to negotiations, and prepare for the reopening of the AU liaison office in Khartoum. The meeting, attended by Foreign Minister Mohieddin Salem, focused on the security and political situation in Sudan, as well as practical arrangements for restoring the African Union’s presence in the country. Belaiche said the discussions examined ways to overcome challenges hindering peace efforts and stressed the importance of strengthening initiatives aimed at achieving stability and security. The AU envoy reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to supporting de-escalation and said a ceasefire remains the key step toward addressing the crisis, alongside an inclusive political process involving Sudanese stakeholders. The African Union is leading mediation efforts through a broader international mechanism that includes the United Nations, European Union, IGAD, and the Arab League. The initiative aims to bring Sudanese political and military actors together to discuss the country’s future governance. The mechanism has received international backing, particularly after Sudanese political groups reached preliminary understandings on elements of a future political process, including the creation of a joint committee. However, disagreements remain over the participation of some groups, including the Islamic Movement and the “Taasis” coalition. A new round of consultations between political forces is expected later this month as regional and international actors continue efforts to find a negotiated solution to Sudan’s conflict. The African Union said it remains committed to supporting Sudan’s unity, sovereignty, and national reconciliation while monitoring political, security, and humanitarian developments. A high-level AU delegation is also expected to visit Khartoum as part of ongoing diplomatic engagement. Sudan’s membership in the African Union has remained suspended since the October 2021 military coup, with the bloc linking its return to the formation of a civilian-led government.