MOSCOW – Sudan’s Sovereignty Council Chairman Abdel Fattah al-Burhan said peace in Sudan must emerge from a Sudanese-led process without external dictates, pledging support for a civilian democratic transition through national dialogue followed by free elections.

Addressing the third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow on Thursday, Burhan said Sudan’s government was seeking a settlement that preserves the country’s unity and sovereignty while meeting the aspirations of its people.

He said an inclusive Sudanese dialogue should form the basis for sustainable political arrangements and lead to a transitional period followed by elections monitored by regional and international observers.

Burhan’s comments come as international and regional actors continue efforts to mediate an end to the war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which began in April 2023.

The conflict has displaced millions of people, devastated infrastructure and triggered one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises.

Burhan accused the RSF of waging war against the Sudanese state with political and logistical support from regional and international actors.

He did not identify the countries he was referring to in the remarks.

Sudanese officials have repeatedly argued that any peace process must respect the country’s sovereignty and state institutions while rejecting arrangements they view as imposed from outside.

Sudan Seeks Deeper Partnership With Russia

Burhan also praised Russia’s position toward Sudan since the outbreak of the war, particularly Moscow’s emphasis on sovereignty and territorial integrity.

He said cooperation between the two countries had expanded in international forums and expressed hope that bilateral relations would develop into a broader strategic partnership.

Sudan and Russia are marking 70 years of diplomatic relations this year.

Khartoum has increasingly looked to Moscow for political and economic cooperation, including in energy, mining, agriculture, infrastructure and reconstruction.

Burhan is leading a high-level Sudanese delegation to the summit that includes senior government, financial, intelligence and defence-industry officials.

The visit is expected to include bilateral talks with Russian officials as Sudan seeks international partners for reconstruction and economic recovery.

Russia-Africa Cooperation

Burhan said the Russia-Africa partnership was based on principles of equal sovereignty and non-interference in domestic affairs.

He said the summit could strengthen cooperation established through previous Russia-Africa meetings and ministerial consultations.

The summit is expected to advance cooperation in political, economic, security, technology, education and development fields.

Burhan also expressed support for what he described as a more balanced and multipolar international system in which African states have greater influence over global decision-making.

His address placed Sudan’s domestic peace process alongside a broader foreign policy message emphasizing sovereignty, opposition to external interference and closer cooperation with Russia and African partners.