France to Host Ministerial Conference on Sudan Next Month

French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné and diplomats announced that France will hold a ministerial meeting in mid-April to assist Sudan and neighboring countries in addressing the repercussions of the civil war, which has led to the displacement of millions and raised warnings of famine. The United Nations urged countries not to forget the civilians affected by the war in Sudan and called for raising $4.1 billion to meet their humanitarian needs and support those who have fled to neighboring countries. According to the UN, half of Sudan's population, approximately 25 million people, require humanitarian assistance and protection, while more than 1.5 million people have fled to the Central African Republic, Chad, Egypt, Ethiopia, and South Sudan. Séjourné stated in a parliamentary session, "It cannot become a forgotten crisis," adding that the conference will take place on April 15. French diplomatic sources indicated that the conference will gather ministers from neighboring countries, active regional actors, Western countries, as well as UN agencies and non-profit organizations working in the region. Diplomats stated that discussions will also cover the political situation, although the warring factions are not scheduled to be invited.