By John Ikani
After weeks of violent conflict, Sudan’s warring factions have finally agreed to participate in negotiations aimed at achieving a stable and reliable ceasefire.
The talks, which could be held in Saudi Arabia, will be monitored by both national and international observers.
While representatives for preliminary discussions have already been named by the two sides, details on the timing and location of the talks have yet to be confirmed.
The United Nations’ special representative in the country, Volker Perthes, expressed hope that the discussions would pave the way for a lasting peace in the region.
He went on to stress that both sides must agree on the venue, which remains undetermined at present.
Despite another three-day extension of the ceasefire, clashes between the two sides continued in the capital, Khartoum.
Explosions and gunfire were reported in Khartoum and its neighboring city, Omdurman, on Monday.
However, Mr. Perthes noted a change in tone from the two factions, who seem to have realized the dangerous nature of the conflict and the high cost of any potential victory.
“The situation has become too dangerous, and both sides recognize that a lasting peace is the only viable solution,” Mr. Perthes stated.
