Jaishankar discusses Sudan situation with UN chief, calls for 'diplomacy’ for early ceasefire

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday to discuss the worsening situation in Sudan, saying the focus is really on how to get the diplomatic channels to yield the desired result of a practical, on-the-ground observed ceasefire.

The EAM also discussed a range of issues, including India's presidency of the G20 and the Ukraine conflict, with a main focus on the Sudan conflict.

“Good to meet UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New York today afternoon. Discussed the current developments in Sudan, G20 Presidency and Ukraine,” Jaishankar tweeted.

“Focus understandably was on Sudan. India strongly supports efforts towards an early ceasefire, leading to the creation of safe corridors. Will continue to work closely with UN and other partners in this regard,” he added in another tweet.

According to Jaishankar, the UN is at "the heart of the efforts" to achieve a ceasefire in Sudan.

Also Read | Poonch terror attack: Punjab's four jawans among those killed; White Knight Corps pays tribute

“And that is really key because at the moment, unless there is a ceasefire and unless there are corridors, it is not safe for people to really come out," the Indian Minister said.

“The UN is doing its bit talking to everybody. We of course have obviously very strong interest in the matter because so many Indians are there,” he added.

About the rising death toll amid military and paramilitary clashes in Sudan, as many as 300 people, including an Indian, have been killed. Over 3,000 people have been injured, according to the World Health Organisation.

Also Read | SC gives three more months to states, UTs to issue ration cards to migrant labourers