High-level Egyptian delegation visits post-coup Sudan

CAIRO

A high-level Egyptian delegation is currently visiting Sudan to discuss recent political developments there with the country’s new military rulers, according to official sources.

The visit comes shortly after Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi spoke with Abdel-Fattah Burhan, the head of Sudan’s ruling Military Transitional Council (MTC), by phone Tuesday evening.

The phone call was the first time for al-Sisi to speak with the new leadership in Sudan since the army announced the “removal” of President Omar al-Bashir last week.

According to Egypt’s official MENA news agency, the delegation's visit to Khartoum is intended to “emphasize [Egypt’s] full support for the choices of the Sudanese people”.

The news agency did not provide the number of delegation members, nor the expected duration of the visit.

In al-Sisi’s phone conversation with Burhan, the former stressed Cairo's support for Sudan's security and stability and the “choices” made by the Sudanese people, according to a subsequent statement released by al-Sisi’s office.

Al-Sisi also reportedly stressed his country's readiness to extend its “support” to Khartoum, although the nature of the offered support remains unclear.

The Sudanese army ousted al-Bashir last week following months of popular protests against his 30-year rule.

The MTC now plans to run the nation’s affairs for a two-year transitional period during which presidential elections will eventually be held.

* Writing by Ali Abo Rezeg