WHAT:   Media representatives in Addis Ababa are invited to cover the closing ceremony of the Preparatory Meeting to Launch an Inter-Sudanese Political Dialogue Process. WHEN:   Monday, 15 July 2024, at 1100 Hours EAT. WHERE: Medium Conference Hall, New Conference Centre, African Union Headquarters WHO:    Attendees include representatives from the African Union, IGAD, and key Sudanese stakeholders Background:        The Preparatory Meeting is an AU-IGAD joint initiative, aims to establish the appropriate atmosphere for dialogue between the Sudanese stakeholders to achieve consensus on the resolution of the conflict in Sudan transition to a democratic civilian rule, provide the opportunity for the political forces to define their overall vision for peace and security in the Sudan. The African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) through the AU High-Level Panel on Sudan (HLP-Sudan) and the IGAD Special Envoy for Sudan, are facilitating this preparatory process based on the principles of inclusiveness, reconciliation, and extensive dialogue towards inquiring about the wishes of the Sudanese people themselves about the future of their country. The meeting is anchored on building a unified platform, an inclusive approach and Sudanese ownership. Key focus areas include defining participation criteria; contributing to agenda-setting for the Political Dialogue; determining the possible dates and venue for launching the Political process; and the role of the international community. For further information, please contact: Ms. Lulit Kebede | Communication Officer, Political Affairs, Peace and Security Department | Email: lulitk@africa-union.org Information and Communication Directorate, African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@africa-union.org| Web: au.int | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | Follow Us: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube