Addis Ababa: Sudan and Ethiopia have reached an agreement to convene the Joint Higher Political Committee, aiming to explore further avenues for strengthening their cooperation. This development emerged from a meeting held in Addis Ababa between Sudan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Ali Youssef Ahmed Al-Sharif, and his Ethiopian counterpart, Dr. Gedion Timothewos, with the Ethiopian State Minister, Mr. Mesganu Arga, also in attendance.

According to Sudan News Agency, the ministers underscored the importance of forming joint committees among border states to facilitate cross-border trade, cooperation, and the movement of people. The meeting primarily focused on enhancing bilateral relations across various sectors by activating existing agreements, with the goal of benefiting the peoples of Sudan and Ethiopia, as well as the broader region.

The discussions were described as fruitful and constructive, addressing issues poised to positively impact bilateral relations and regional cooperation. Both countries
emphasized the necessity of collaboration to safeguard their bilateral interests and those of neighboring nations.

Dr. Al-Sharif also briefed the Ethiopian delegation on Sudan’s current situation, highlighting recent victories by the Sudanese Armed Forces over rebel militias. He pointed out the presence of numerous foreign mercenaries among the militias and stressed the importance of regional cooperation to curb the influx of such mercenaries into Sudan, preventing their spread throughout the region.

The meeting addressed the status of Sudanese nationals in Ethiopia, focusing on regularizing their status and addressing humanitarian needs. Minister Al-Sharif expressed appreciation for Ethiopia’s previous exemptions of residency fees for Sudanese nationals. Additionally, he informed the Ethiopian officials about Sudan’s decision to release Ethiopian police officers who had sought refuge in Sudan, and advocated for facilitating the return of Ethiopian laborers to border states, promoting border cooperation and
strengthening regional coordination.

The Ethiopian side committed to engaging immigration authorities to extend exemptions for Sudanese nationals. Dr. Al-Sharif also discussed regional issues, emphasizing the Horn of Africa’s potential for integration among its interconnected peoples, which could lead to broader economic opportunities and mutual benefits for all.