This archive report was first published on 3 September 2019.
On September 3, 2019, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas arrived in Sudan, marking a significant step in the country's transition from decades of autocratic rule under ousted leader Omar al-Bashir.
Maas' visit comes after Sudan swore in a new prime minister and a civilian-majority ruling body to steer the country through a three-year transitional period.
The power-sharing deal, signed on August 17, was a result of months of protests led by an umbrella group against veteran leader Bashir and the generals who seized power after ousting him.
"Sudan stands at a turning point of its history," Maas said in a statement ahead of his visit.
During his visit, Maas is expected to meet with the newly-appointed Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and the head of Sudan's ruling body, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan.
Maas expressed his appreciation for the protest movement and emphasized the importance of Sudan receiving international support to seize this historic chance.
Sudan has long suffered from a pariah status, particularly due to its listing as a state sponsor of terrorism since 1993, which has damaged its economy and hampered foreign investment.
