Press Conference Summary: Sudanese Prime Minister’s Remarks Following His Return from Asmara

The Sudanese Prime Minister Dr. Kamil Idris held a press conference upon his return from what he described as a “short but historic visit” to Eritrea. During the visit, he met with President Isaias Afwerki, senior government officials, and the Foreign Minister. The discussions—lasting more than seven hours—were marked by “unprecedented enthusiasm and strong support for Sudan.”

Highlights from the Visit

1. Gratitude to Eritrea

The Prime Minister expressed deep appreciation to President Afwerki, the Eritrean government, and the Eritrean people for their “unlimited support” during Sudan’s ongoing crisis. He especially thanked the Eritrean people for their “generosity and humanity” in hosting Sudanese refugees under difficult circumstances.

2. Message from President Al-Burhan

He conveyed “sincere greetings and warm wishes” from his “brother and friend,” President Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, underscoring the close ties between the two nations.

3. Strengthened Coordination

The two leaders emphasized the need for continued coordination in regional and international platforms—particularly in Sudan’s reinstatement to the African Union, as well as on broader issues affecting the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region.

4. Strategic and Economic Partnerships

Both sides agreed to advance strategic, large-scale projects rather than small ventures. Priority initiatives include joint investments in Red Sea fisheries, gold and oil refineries, and mineral resource development.

5. Activation of Joint Committees

Existing bilateral committees were reactivated, and a new economic committee was established under the direct supervision of President Afwerki to coordinate and monitor major economic ventures between the two countries.

6. Warm Reception in Asmara

The Prime Minister described the reception from President Afwerki and the Eritrean public as “overwhelmingly warm and fraternal.” He recounted his walk through Asmara’s streets as a moving testament to the depth of popular support for Sudan.

7. Engagement with the Sudanese Community in Eritrea

He met with members of the Sudanese diaspora in two forums, listening to their concerns and suggestions, and pledged to address their issues through appropriate channels.

8. Focus of the Economic Committee

The new economic committee will concentrate on major projects along the Red Sea coast, strengthening mutual economic resilience and integration.

9. Security and Strategic Cooperation

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing security, intelligence, and strategic collaboration. The Prime Minister acknowledged Eritrea’s “direct and steadfast support” to Sudan during its imposed war, emphasizing that cooperation will continue for the mutual benefit and stability of both nations.

Conclusion

The Prime Minister concluded that his visit marked a turning point in Sudan–Eritrea relations, transforming historic goodwill into structured cooperation based on shared destiny, mutual respect, and regional solidarity.