Sudan Ministerial Meeting – United for Peace in Sudan

Excellencies,

Ladies and Gentlemen

The war in Sudan has deeply concerned Switzerland, especially given its devastating impact on the Sudanese people.

Not long ago, Sudan stood as a model of political transition, shifting from military rule to a civilian-led government, offering hope for a peaceful future.

But the war ended this transition, triggering the world's worst humanitarian crisis. Millions have been forced to flee, with even more suffering from severe food insecurity. This devastation is human-made, not beyond control, and must end.

We are here to reaffirm our commitment to addressing this crisis. Switzerland is committed to supporting efforts to promote peace in Sudan. In this spirit, we supported the Secretary-General's Personal Envoy in holding proximity talks in Geneva last July and hosted a US-led ceasefire conference in August.

Despite our best efforts, direct talks between the parties were not possible. However, we remain committed to not giving up.

The United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United Nations, the African Union and Switzerland formed the ALPS group to take forward the process launched in Jeddah.

Excellencies

We are gathered here under the Paris and ALPS group framework to speak with one voice and stand united for Sudan.

I strongly believe that the international community can achieve more through better coordination, including through our Special Envoys. Allow me to take this opportunity to thank the Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for his efforts.

It is crucial that we keep pressing the warring parties to grant humanitarian access and protect aid workers. We must ensure that sufficient resources are available and that this lifesaving support reaches those in desperate need.

But only an end to the fighting can pave the way for the peaceful and prosperous Sudan that the Sudanese people so clearly demand.

The political solution for a peaceful Sudan must be Sudanese-owned and Sudanese-led. Switzerland supports these efforts and we appreciate the important role of the African Union in this regard.

Finally, let us not forget that we are all signatories to the Geneva Conventions. Recently, we marked their 75th anniversary.

As signatories, we are committed to upholding and ensuring respect for their principles. International Humanitarian Law protects the most vulnerable in times of war.

Let us honor these obligations everywhere, including in Sudan.

Thank you.