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Pakistan and Sudan Strengthen Bilateral Security and Institutional Cooperation

High-level meetings in Rawalpindi focus on regional security, counterterrorism, and humanitarian support.

Dawn2 min

1High-Level Diplomatic Engagement

Sudanese Interior Minister Lieutenant General Babiker Samra Mustafa Ali visited Pakistan to meet with Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir. The discussions at General Headquarters in Rawalpindi centered on enhancing bilateral cooperation. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties, specifically focusing on security, counterterrorism, and institutional collaboration between nations.

2Strategic Security Discussions

The dialogue encompassed evolving regional and global security dynamics, reflecting shared concerns regarding stability. General Munir emphasized Pakistan's desire to deepen engagement with Sudan, highlighting the necessity of close cooperation to address mutual security challenges. The Sudanese minister acknowledged Pakistan's ongoing role in promoting regional peace and stability throughout the region.

3Foreign Ministry Consultations

Minister Ali also met with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During this session, Pakistan reaffirmed its steadfast support for Sudan’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. The meeting underscored the importance Pakistan attaches to maintaining strong, brotherly relations with the North African nation.

4Prime Ministerial Meeting

A delegation led by Minister Ali met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the PM House on Thursday. The Prime Minister expressed a desire for Sudan to emerge from its current crisis as a stable, prosperous country. He highlighted vast opportunities for bilateral cooperation in sectors including agriculture, defence, and education.

5Humanitarian and Medical Aid

Minister Ali expressed gratitude for the humanitarian and medical assistance provided by the Pakistani government during difficult times. He commended Pakistan’s support on international forums regarding efforts to restore peace and security in Sudan. This assistance reflects the longstanding fraternal ties that have historically defined the relationship between the two nations.

6Context of Sudanese Conflict

Sudan is currently facing the world’s largest displacement crisis following the outbreak of war in 2023. The conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces arose from disputes over the integration of forces during a transition to civilian rule. This instability has caused massive internal and external population displacement.

7Scale of Displacement Crisis

Approximately 8.6 million people remain displaced within Sudan, while over 4.6 million have fled across international borders. Although 5.2 million people have returned to their areas of origin, they frequently encounter destroyed infrastructure and basic services. These figures highlight the immense humanitarian challenges currently facing the Sudanese population and government.

8Future Cooperation Outlook

The meetings signal a strategic intent to move beyond humanitarian aid toward institutional and economic partnerships. By focusing on security and trade, both nations aim to stabilize their bilateral engagement. Observers should monitor whether these diplomatic commitments translate into concrete infrastructure projects or expanded defense cooperation in the coming months.

Original article: Dawn — Pakistan and Sudan Strengthen Bilateral Security and Institutional Cooperation