Al-Burhan’s Visit to Cairo: Timing and Implications

The Face of Truth

Ibrahim Shglawi

Lieutenant General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Chairman of the Sudanese Sovereignty Council and Commander-in-Chief of the Sudanese Armed Forces, will make an official visit to the Egyptian capital, Cairo, tomorrow, Monday, November 4th. The visit, as announced, aims to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries and address mutual issues. In this article, we attempt to examine the main issues likely to be discussed during the visit and explore its implications in the context of recent events in Sudan, the Arab region, and the Horn of Africa. It is essential to consider the current favorable field situation of the Sudanese army across various fronts, as recent days have witnessed a significant advance, with the army regaining control of strategic positions in Sennar State and crossing bridges into the heart of Khartoum, along with making considerable progress in the Darfur region.

Additionally, there is a clear international and regional desire to end the war in Sudan, given the rapidly evolving dynamics in the Middle East and the Horn of Africa, which necessitate restructuring the Sudanese army’s capabilities to face potential challenges and to mitigate the war’s impact on neighboring countries. It is also crucial to consider the recent high-profile visits to Cairo, including that of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, both of which emphasized the importance of ending the conflict in Sudan.

Recently, following heinous attacks on citizens in eastern Al-Jazira and Darfur by armed militias, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry, the Arab League, the European Union, the United States, several friendly and allied countries, as well as humanitarian and rights organizations affiliated with the United Nations, Al-Azhar, and various religious leaders, issued statements condemning these attacks. Observers noted that these unprecedented and impactful condemnations have formed a strong opposition against the militias on all levels. This may lead President Al-Burhan to request Egypt’s support in expediting the process of classifying these militias as terrorist organizations, given Egypt’s significant political and diplomatic influence on both regional and international levels. Should this classification be made, it would have a profound effect in curtailing the militias’ ability to continue the conflict, as all supporters—regional, international, and even domestic entities providing political and media cover—may withdraw their backing out of fear of legal repercussions.

Another key issue expected to be discussed by President Al-Burhan is the formation of the Sudanese government, whose initial structure is beginning to take shape by relying on national expertise. This approach aligns with the new vision adopted by the Sudanese Sovereignty Council in nominating leadership positions based on qualifications specified in the official announcement, which we have seen discussed in the media. Previously, appointments were often based on quotas or unstudied selections, resulting in the costly waste of resources and time.

The issue of forming a new government is one of the main topics that President Al-Burhan will discuss with President Sisi to ensure broad support. President Sisi has previously stated that Egypt will do its utmost to end the conflict in Sudan and work with the Sudanese leadership to form a government that will lead to elections, ensuring a return to security and stability. He emphasized that Egypt does not interfere in Sudan’s internal affairs but rather seeks to calm the situation to help Sudanese citizens restore security and achieve peace.

Another significant issue concerns the status of Sudanese residents in Egypt, which reflects the deep historical ties between the two countries, seen in Egypt’s role in welcoming Sudanese citizens and easing their hardships in various areas, primarily education, which faces considerable challenges that require attention, in addition to healthcare services. Additionally, the importance of reopening entry visas to Egypt is evident, as many Sudanese remain stranded at border crossings hoping to enter for education, healthcare, and other purposes, having complied with the conditions previously set by the Egyptian government.

The discussions are also expected to cover the Nile waters and joint projects, where both countries share similar views regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam and the Nile Water Commission. The talks may also address trade relations and the smooth flow of exports between the two countries, an area that the Rapid Support Forces attempted to disrupt by announcing the suspension of agricultural and livestock exports from areas under their control in Darfur. However, the Sudanese government has the capability to address this and will provide necessary assurances to the Egyptian side in this regard.

According to The Truth Perspective, these issues are crucial for organizing Sudan’s affairs, particularly in terms of restoring security and achieving peace for Sudanese citizens, marking the transition to a post-conflict era. This visit reflects both countries’ commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and ensuring stability, security, and peace in the region, as it responds to political and security developments. It is equally important for international actors to support these efforts and collaborate with Sudan and Egypt to achieve mutual goals and ensure regional stability.

Best regards and good health.

Shglawi55@gmail.com