The US-sponsored talks on securing a ceasefire for the devastating conflict in Sudan kicked off on Wednesday this week RIYADH: Members of the international community gathered in Switzerland for Sudan ceasefire talks on Friday, where a joint statement was issued calling for the safe passage of aid groups into Sudan. In the statement, Saudi Arabia, the US, Switzerland, the UAE, Egypt, the African Union and the UN said: “The delegations in Geneva welcome the decision by the Sudanese Armed Forces to open the Adre border crossing — a critical step for saving lives and preventing the spread of famine and we look forward to seeing the first convoys cross in the coming days. We call on the Rapid Support Forces to take immediate steps to ensure that the aid groups entering through the Adre border are provided safety, unfettered humanitarian access, and operational independence from armed and political actors.” The statement added: “Immediate steps must be taken to move humanitarian assistance into Darfur and across Sudan with safe and unhindered passage to the people in need, regardless of which party controls territory. The expansion of humanitarian assistance is a top priority for the members of the international community gathered in Switzerland.” The US-sponsored talks on securing a ceasefire for the devastating conflict in Sudan kicked off on Wednesday this week. The talks, which could last up to 10 days, are being held behind closed doors in an undisclosed location.