Sudan has canceled a port agreement with the United Arab Emirates in an apparent protest in Abu Dhabi over its alleged support for the Rapid Support Forces, where paramilitary forces have engaged in a deadly clash with government forces.

Finance Minister Jibril Ibrahim said that his country canceled the memorandum of understanding with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) regarding the establishment of the Abu Amama port on the Red Sea coast.

Ibrahim said Khartoum withdrew the agreement because it was not legally binding for Sudan and that this move would protect Sudan’s sovereignty.

At a press conference in Port Sudan, he claimed Sudan would not cede “one centimeter” of its coastline to the UAE. This decision comes amid growing accusations that Abu Dhabi has been providing support to Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which have been involved in conflict against the Sudanese army since April 2023.

The cancellation of the Abu Amama agreement could also be a political maneuver aimed at reducing the UAE’s influence in Sudan, especially given the accusations regarding its support for the RSF. This decision signals a shift in Sudan’s foreign policy; It emphasizes the desire to defend national autonomy and resist external pressures amid ongoing regional tensions.

The relationship between Sudan and the UAE is complex, marked by both cooperation and tensions in the recent past.

In the agreement signed between the Sudanese government and the Abu Dhabi port authority with the investment firm of Sudanese businessman Osama Dawood in December 2022, it was aimed to develop the Abu Amama port with investments worth 6 billion dollars, including the free trade zone and agricultural projects.

The sudden cancellation indicates that this partnership is being re-evaluated in light of the current political landscape.

Residents of Eastern Sudan, especially those in Port Sudan, largely welcomed the cancellation of the project.

They hope the government will focus on improving local infrastructure and creating job opportunities. The community is looking for real investments that prioritize local benefits, rather than large-scale projects run by foreigners, which they fear could harm local economies.

Domestically, this decision could create difficulties for the Sudanese government as it navigates a complex environment of political factions.

Different groups have different views on relations with the UAE and other foreign countries; This requires a balanced approach to policymaking that promotes national unity while addressing the concerns of various political entities.

But the decision comes at a time when Sudan faces a deepening humanitarian crisis. Living conditions for many Sudanese have deteriorated significantly due to rising inflation, currency devaluation and rising prices.

The government’s call for increased international humanitarian assistance is urgent as the ongoing conflict seriously impacts the well-being of the population. At least 18,000 people were killed, 11 million were displaced and 2 million were forced to seek refuge outside Sudan.

Those displaced faced near-famine conditions and were also subjected to sexual violence and attacks by warring groups, according to aid agencies.

But the cancellation of the port agreement has consequences for regional powers such as Saudi Arabia and Egypt, which have interests beyond Sudan’s borders, especially in the Red Sea.

This underscores the delicate balance of power in the region, where Sudan must carefully navigate international influences.

Looking ahead, Sudan faces both challenges and opportunities. By asserting its political stance and limiting external influences, the country can stabilize its rule and restore confidence in its sovereignty.

Engaging with international organizations and prioritizing humanitarian assistance will be crucial to promoting long-term stability and recovery.