Canada has joined the United States, Britain, France, and several other countries in temporarily suspending diplomatic operations in Sudan due to the ongoing fighting between rival Sudanese generals. In a statement released by Global Affairs Canada, the government’s diplomatic department, it was noted that the situation in Sudan had rapidly deteriorated, making it impossible to ensure the safety and security of Canadian staff in Khartoum. As a result, Canadian diplomats will temporarily work from a safe location outside the country. The statement also noted that Canadian officials remain in close contact with local hires and are looking at all possible options to support them as the situation continues to evolve.
Limited consular services are being provided, and officials in Ottawa are in regular contact with Canadians affected, providing them with information and advice. The decision to suspend diplomatic operations in Sudan comes as fierce fighting between the Sudanese army and a paramilitary group has left more than 400 people dead and thousands injured. Explosions and gunfire continue to be heard in the capital as the fighting shows no signs of abating.
Saudi officials have also been evacuating foreign diplomats and citizens, with Canadian citizens among the 150 people evacuated from Port Sudan. Riyadh announced that 91 Saudi citizens and around 66 nationals from 12 other countries, including Canada, had arrived safely.
As the situation in Sudan remains volatile, many countries have urged their citizens to leave the country or to avoid non-essential travel to the region. The Canadian government has advised Canadians in Sudan to stay in a safe location and to contact their families to let them know they are safe. The Canadian embassy in Egypt has been designated to provide consular assistance to Canadian citizens in Sudan.
The decision by Canada to suspend diplomatic operations in Sudan underscores the severity of the crisis in the country. As the fighting continues, the international community is closely monitoring the situation, and many are calling for an end to the violence. With the safety and security of its citizens and staff being the top priority, Canada, like many other countries, has taken the necessary steps to protect its people in the face of the ongoing crisis.
