In an interview with Sputnik Africa, Sudan's Deputy Foreign Minister Hussein Al-Amin Al-Fadil Al-Haj condemned the West’s decision to impose sanctions on Sputnik Africa and remove it from social media platforms, calling it a contradiction to Western principles.
"This is one of the contradictions of the West, which claims to uphold freedom, freedom of expression, freedom of the press, democracy, and human rights," Al-Haj remarked, highlighting the inconsistency he perceives between Western ideals and actions.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Russia-Africa ministerial conference in Sochi, he suggested that the ban reflects a broader pattern of suppressing voices that challenge Western narratives.
“We see sanctions imposed on media outlets, countries, and individuals whenever their voices do not align with Western interests,” he added.
Al-Haj also expressed concerns about the impact of the sanctions on Sputnik Africa, which he described as a respected source on the continent. The recent actions by platforms like TikTok and Meta*, which have deleted Sputnik’s accounts, are part of what he views as an attempt to control information.
Speaking of the differences between Russia and the West, Al-Haj praised Russia’s collaborative role in Africa, emphasizing Moscow's “win-win” approach to resource development.
"Sudan is a country rich in sources and resources," he noted, adding that Russia’s involvement could help Sudan and other African nations realize their potential in a more balanced partnership than the one historically offered by Western countries.
He further criticized what he described as an exploitative approach by Western powers, who, for decades, benefited from African resources without reciprocating value. In contrast, Al-Haj praised Russia’s commitment to promoting balanced investment models that allow Africa’s natural wealth to fuel growth for the continent itself.
The deputy foreign minister believes Russia’s collaborative approach represents a shift toward mutual benefit, as he sees African nations progressing with Russia’s support.
In addition, Al-Haj highlighted the role of BRICS in creating economic and strategic balance globally and supporting African economies.
"BRICS is a platform and a very important bloc for creating an economic and strategic balance in the world, ending the unipolar dominance... especially the Western bloc," Al-Haj stated.
He credited BRICS with advancing Africa’s economic development and highlighted Russia and China’s roles within the group as crucial to uplifting African nations and fostering a multipolar world.
Turning to Sudan's internal crisis, Al-Haj called for an end to foreign interference in the ongoing conflict, attributing the violence to “regional and international parties with ambitions and strategic interests that feed this war.” He noted that external support for militias and an influx of mercenaries has worsened the crisis, resulting in severe impacts on Sudan’s civilian population.
"We have seen all imaginable violations being committed in Sudan against defenseless civilians," he said.
Al-Haj argued that stopping foreign intervention is essential for Sudan to achieve internal stability and peace.
The deputy minister also sees Russia as a potential mediator in reducing foreign influence on Sudan’s conflict. He explained that Sudan has discussed with Russian counterparts "the potential actions Russia can take" to address these external pressures, leveraging Moscow’s extensive relationships across Africa.
Al-Haj also highlighted Sudan's collaboration with Russia in combating terrorism and organized crime, critical issues given Sudan’s strategic location.
"Sudan is one of the very important countries in Africa for combating terrorism and organized crime, particularly human trafficking and the smuggling of people, as well as terrorist groups," he stated.
He further noted that Russia’s security efforts in regions like the Sahel align closely with Sudan’s goals, suggesting that continued collaboration could enhance regional stability and security.
Wrapping up the interview, Al-Haj underscored the importance of the ministerial meeting held in the framework of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum.
"The Russia-Africa Partnership Forum is a very significant event for both Africa and Russia to discuss economic and political partnerships and enhance Russia's presence in Africa," he concluded, emphasizing that the event holds particular importance for Sudan, given its close relations with Russia and role as a key African nation.
*Meta and its products Instagram and Facebook are banned in Russia over extremist activities