Sudanese Foreign Minister Confirms Progress in Russian Naval Base Talks

KHARTOUM – Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Yousif Sharif reaffirmed Wednesday that discussions over the establishment of a Russian naval base on Sudan’s Red Sea coast remain active and are progressing without obstacles. Speaking during his visit to Moscow, Sharif emphasized that negotiations with Russia are moving in a positive direction, with both sides in full agreement on the issue.

In an interview with the Russian RT channel, Sharif dismissed concerns that the base could threaten Sudan’s sovereignty, citing Djibouti as an example of a country hosting multiple foreign military bases without issue. He clarified that all major aspects of the agreement had already been finalized, and there were no outstanding disagreements between Khartoum and Moscow. Following a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, he reiterated that both nations had reached a mutual understanding.

Sudan and Russia originally signed a preliminary agreement in November 2020 to establish a Russian naval logistics hub on Sudan’s Red Sea coast. While previous Sudanese governments had reviewed the deal, Sharif’s statements indicate that the project remains a key part of bilateral cooperation.