As fighting rages in Sudan, Jaishankar speaks to Saudi, UAE counterparts

In the conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan, Jaishankar said both sides will remain in close touch. “Appreciated his assessment of the Sudan situation. Will remain in close touch,” he said on Twitter.

Sudan has been witnessing deadly fighting between the country’s army and a paramilitary group for the last six days that has reportedly left around 100 people dead. Government sources said that India is coordinating closely with various countries to ensure the safety and security of Indian nationals in Sudan.

“The Quartet countries of the US, the UK, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have a key role and we are engaging them accordingly. The External Affairs minister has spoken to counterparts in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Both have assured their practical support on the ground. Our Ambassador in Washington DC and High Commissioner in London are in touch with their respective host governments. We are also working with the UN, which has a substantial presence in Sudan,” the source said.

In New Delhi, the source said, “We have set up a dedicated control room. We are in continuous touch with our Embassy in Khartoum and are getting regular reports of the status of the Indian community. The Embassy in turn is in touch with the community and individuals through multiple methods including WhatsApp groups.”

Jaishankar and former Karnataka chief minister K Siddaramaiah got into a Twitter spat on Tuesday, as the Congress leader urged the Central government to immediately intervene and ensure safe return of a group from the Hakki Pikki tribe who are stranded in Sudan.