Sudan cancels port deal with UAE in subtle protest in Abu Dhabi

Sudan has canceled a port deal with the United Arab Emirates in an apparent protest in Abu Dhabi over its alleged support for the Rapid Support Forces, the paramilitaries engaged in a deadly conflict with government forces.

Finance Minister Jibril Ibrahim said his country has terminated a memorandum of understanding with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on the establishment of Abu Amama port on the Red Sea coast.

Ibrahim said Khartoum dropped the deal because it was not legally binding on Sudan, saying the move would protect Sudan’s sovereignty.

At a press conference in Port Sudan, he claimed that Sudan would not cede “one centimeter” of its coastline to the UAE. The move comes amid mounting allegations that Abu Dhabi has provided support to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has been embroiled in conflict with the Sudanese military since April 2023.

The cancellation of the Abu Amama deal could also be a political maneuver aimed at limiting the UAE’s influence in Sudan, especially given the accusations surrounding its support for the RSF. This decision marks a shift in Sudan’s foreign policy, emphasizing the desire to maintain national autonomy and resist external pressure amid ongoing regional tensions.

The relationship between Sudan and the UAE has been complex, marked by both cooperation and tensions in the recent past.

It was signed in December 2022 between the Sudanese government and the Abu Dhabi Port Authority, together with the investment company of Sudanese businessman Osama Dawood, and aimed to develop the Abu Amama Port with investments worth $6 billion, including a free trade zone and agricultural projects.

The abrupt cancellation signals a reappraisal of this partnership in light of the current political landscape.

Residents of eastern Sudan, especially in Port Sudan, have largely welcomed the project’s cancellation.

They hope that the government will focus on developing local infrastructure and creating employment. The community is looking for real investments that prioritize local benefits over large-scale foreign-run projects, which they fear could undermine local economies.

Domestically, this decision could pose a challenge to the Sudanese government as it navigates the complex landscape of political factions.

Different groups have different views on relations with the UAE and other foreign nations, necessitating a balanced approach to policymaking that promotes national unity while addressing the concerns of diverse political entities.

But the decision comes as Sudan faces a deepening humanitarian crisis. Rising inflation, currency devaluation and rising prices have significantly deteriorated the living conditions of many Sudanese.

The government’s call for more international humanitarian aid is urgent, as the ongoing conflict has had serious consequences for the well-being of the population. At least 18,000 people have been killed, 11 million displaced and two million forced to seek refuge outside Sudan.

According to aid groups, the displaced have faced conditions close to famine, as well as sexual violence and attacks by warring factions.

However, the termination of the port agreement has consequences beyond Sudan’s borders, especially in relation to regional powers such as Saudi Arabia and Egypt, which also have interests in the Red Sea.

This situation highlights the delicate balance of power in the region, where Sudan must carefully manage international influences.

Looking ahead, Sudan faces both challenges and opportunities. By asserting its political position and limiting external influences, the country can stabilize its governance and restore confidence in its sovereignty.

Cooperating with international organizations and prioritizing humanitarian assistance will be critical to promoting long-term stability and recovery.