Saudi Arabia urges new Sudan talks after protest crackdown

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia on Wednesday called for a resumption of dialogue between Sudan's various political forces, expressing concern after a bloody crackdown on protesters.
"The government of Saudi Arabia has followed with great concern the developments in the brotherly Republic of Sudan, which resulted in a number of deaths and injuries," said the statement on the official Saudi Press Agency.
"The kingdom affirms the importance of resuming the dialogue between the various parties in Sudan to fulfil the aspirations of the brotherly Sudanese people."
The statement comes after at least 60 people were killed as Sudan's security forces launched a deadly raid on Monday on a weeks-long sit-in outside the army headquarters in Khartoum.
Western governments have been strongly supportive of the protesters but Arab governments, led by Saudi Arabia, have backed the military rulers, who are facing calls from protesters to cede power to a civilian transitional government.
Sudan plays a key role in the regional interests of Saudi Arabia and its allies, siding with Riyadh against Shiite Iran and providing troops in the Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen's war.
Last month, Saudi Arabia announced it deposited $250 million in Sudan's central bank as part of a support package in an apparent lifeline for the military rulers.
In April, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates announced three billion dollars (2.7 billion euros) in financial aid for Sudan.
Sudan has been convulsed by turmoil after its military ousted veteran president Omar al-Bashir in April following months of protests against his authoritarian rule.