Eritrea, Sudan discuss Red Sea stability

Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki met with Sudanese Finance Minister Gibril Ibrahim and Information Minister Khalid Aleisir on Sunday to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation between their countries and address regional security issues in the Horn of Africa.

The talks emphasized the need for continued political coordination to serve the interests of both nations and promote stability in the Red Sea region.

According to Sudan's state-run news agency (SUNA), the discussions also explored a range of topics related to bilateral relations, including potential collaboration across various sectors, as well as consultations on key regional and international developments.

Afwerki has been focused on strengthening ties with other Red Sea coastal nations, with recent visits to Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Afwerki's actions come as Eritrea's neighbor, Ethiopia, also seeks greater maritime access. During the meeting, the Eritrean president reaffirmed his country's commitment to its longstanding relationship with Sudan, underscoring Eritrea's support for Sudan's security and stability.

He also emphasized the importance of collaborating to address common challenges in a region characterized by significant geopolitical shifts. 

At the same time, Sudanese officials praised Eritrea for its support of Sudanese citizens, particularly those affected by the ongoing conflict that began in April 2023. In turn, Sudanese nationals have been granted privileges, including fee exemptions and freedom of movement, in Eritrea.