In an exclusive interview with
African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Momentum at AU Summit
Mr. Lamamra recently participated in the African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa as part of the UN Secretary-General’s delegation.
There, he discussed ways to achieve a peaceful solution in Sudan in coordination with neighbouring countries, and regional and international organizations, starting with the AU, the League of Arab States, East African bloc IGAD, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.
He affirmed that the Sudan crisis had been at the forefront of discussions.
In this context, he welcomed the election of Mahmoud Ali Youssef as Chairperson of the AU Commission and praised his role in supporting peace efforts in Sudan.
Hope for the Jeddah Declaration
Nearly two years ago, the warring parties in Sudan signed a declaration in the city of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, aimed at protecting civilians and providing unhindered humanitarian access.
When asked about the possibility of implementing the agreement on the ground, and the obstacles that prevent it, the Mr. Lamamra described the declaration as “a promising and positive document, which is the only document that everyone signed and agreed upon days after the outbreak of the war.”
He stressed that preparatory technical talks needed to start soon in order to start implementing the declaration.
‘A message of brotherhood’
Concluding his interview with UN News, Mr. Lamamra addressed a message to the Sudanese people and the warring parties on the occasion of Ramadan.
He said the Sudanese people love freedom, peace, and peaceful coexistence.
“My message is a message of brotherhood. A message with the values of Islam that are valued by Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Those concerned must always follow the teachings of true Islam and appreciate the sanctity of human life,” he said.
“Our hope is that our brothers will seize this opportunity to think about a Ramadan free of violence, a Ramadan filled with brotherhood and the aspiration for a better future.”