Statement by the Chairperson of the African Union Commission on the Situation Along the Chad–Sudan Border

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, is following with concern reports of air strikes carried out on 20 August 2026 in the Ennedi-Est region, within the territory of the Republic of Chad, in connection with the ongoing conflict in Sudan.

The Chairperson reaffirms the African Union’s commitment to the strict respect for the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of its Member States, as well as the principle of the inviolability of borders.

He calls on all parties concerned to exercise utmost restraint, refrain from any action likely to heighten tensions between neighbouring States, and take all necessary measures to prevent the conflict in Sudan from extending beyond the country’s borders.

In this regard, the Chairperson underscores the need to strengthen dialogue and cooperation among the States of the region in order to prevent cross-border incidents, enhance the security of common borders, and reduce the risk of regional escalation.

The Chairperson reiterates the readiness of the African Union Commission to support the States concerned in any initiative aimed at contributing to de-escalation, preventing further incidents, and preserving regional peace and stability.