The political transition in Sudan offers a historic opportunity to work towards a peaceful, democratic and prosperous country, highlights the Council of the European Union in conclusions adopted without debate on Monday 9 December (see EUROPE 12385/2).
It stresses that Sudan's success remains crucial for stability in the Horn of Africa and the wider region and reaffirms the EU's continued commitment to support Sudan on its path of political, economic and social reform.
In order to ensure the country's long-term stability, the transition should involve all segments of society, including women, youth and people in areas particularly affected by conflict and marginalisation, the EU Council also stresses, reiterating, too, the importance of civil society.
In this regard, the EU Council recalls that only a genuine civilian government, with real decision-making authority, will win the confidence of the Sudanese people and lay the foundations for meaningful reforms. The EU remains ready to assist a Sudanese-led peace process in coordination with regional partners, especially the African Union.
While acknowledging that substantial macro-economic reforms are needed to revitalise the Sudanese economy and set it on a course towards inclusive and sustainable growth, the Council notes that the EU stands ready to support the transitional government's plans in this regard. In November, Sudanese Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok presented his ambitions and plans to the foreign ministers (see EUROPE 12367/11).
The EU remains concerned about the deteriorating humanitarian situation which has been aggravated by a high number of refugees and internally displaced persons. It calls on the Sudanese authorities to remove the bureaucratic obstacles that humanitarian and development workers continue to face. (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)