PARIS – The French foreign ministry welcomed on Friday the Saudi/US-brokered agreement between the fighting parties in Sudan to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian aid, recalling that these commitments are legal obligations for all sides under international humanitarian law.
A statement issued by the French foreign ministry called on the parties to commit as soon as possible to a lasting ceasefire, to facilitate the establishment of humanitarian corridors and to ensure the safety of civilians present in the areas of confrontation.
Last Tuesday a first patch of humanitarian aid to Sudan, offered by the European Union, was transported to Port Sudan. The European Union now prepares more flights with emergency assistance to the country.
The Spokesperson's Service (SPP) of the European Commission told Al-Monitor on Friday that the flight to Port Sudan was only the beginning of a humanitarian air bridge operation, with more flights expected in the coming days with a variety of emergency aid. European diplomats are hoping that the Saudi/US-mediated deal for protecting civilians announced Thursday should enable better distribution of the humanitarian aid.