Invest in Sudan’s peaceful and sustainable future, UN chief tells Paris conference

MENA , Tuesday 18 May 2021

'We have a responsibility to help Sudan consolidate its democratic transition. Rebuild its economy. And deliver sustainable peace and development for all its diverse society,' he said

UN
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres attends a joint news conference with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov following the talks in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, May 12, 2021. AP

Continued international support for Sudan is critical as the country undergoes a historic political and economic transformation, UN Secretary-General António Guterres told a major investment conference in Paris on Monday.

“We have a responsibility to help Sudan consolidate its democratic transition. Rebuild its economy. And deliver sustainable peace and development for all its diverse society,” he said in a video message broadcast by the UN media center.

The conference, organized by French President Emmanuel Macron, aimed to encourage private investors to return to Sudan as it continues to emerge from three decades of isolation and rebuild its shattered economy.

The secretary-general said the conference is part of the ongoing efforts to bring Sudan back into the international community.

He commended those countries which have assisted Sudan in clearing its arrears with the international financial institutions, adding that “generous donor support” will be needed for achieving debt relief under the HPIC scheme.

“Continued support from Sudan’s friends and partners is critical”, he said.

“If financial assistance and investments are not forthcoming, the continued dire economic situation could severely affect Sudan's transition, with negative consequences for peace and stability in the country, the region and beyond.”

Guterres stressed that Sudan needs investment and a sustained commitment towards rebuilding, including from the private sector, while regaining eligibility for funding from international financial institutions is an important foundation for the country’s economic revival.

“Sudan is undergoing a historic political and economic transformation,” he said. “I call on donors and businesses to make a bold investment in Sudan’s peaceful and sustainable future." 

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