Islamabad, 6 November, 2026 (Ghufran): Pakistan has reiterated its firm support for Sudan’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity as Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar met Sudanese Interior Minister Babeker Samra Mustafa Ali in Islamabad amid growing concerns that the ongoing civil war could lead to the country’s permanent division. During the meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for Sudan’s unity and territorial integrity, according to a statement issued by the Foreign Office. He also underscored Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation with Sudan in areas of mutual interest. The visiting Sudanese minister appreciated Pakistan’s support and solidarity, expressing his government’s desire to further enhance cooperation between the two countries. Sudan has been gripped by a devastating conflict since April 2023, when fighting erupted between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The RSF controls much of the western Darfur region and has established a parallel administration, raising international concerns about the possible fragmentation of the African country. The United Nations Security Council and the African Union have rejected the rival administration, warning against unilateral measures that could undermine Sudan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Sudanese minister represents the internationally recognised, army-aligned government led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, whose forces have been engaged in a prolonged conflict with the RSF. The fighting has displaced more than 14 million people and triggered one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises. While the Sudanese army controls the capital, Khartoum, along with large parts of the northern, eastern and central regions, the RSF maintains control over most of Darfur and significant areas of neighbouring Kordofan. Earlier this week, the African Union Peace and Security Council and members of the UN Security Council reiterated their rejection of the parallel administration, cautioning that actions undermining Sudan’s sovereignty could further divide the country. The visiting minister also met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday. During the meeting, the prime minister expressed hope that Sudan would overcome its crisis and emerge as a peaceful and stable nation. He also called for enhanced bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, defence and education. According to an official statement, Pakistan has also extended humanitarian and medical assistance to Sudan as part of its continued support for the Sudanese people.
