Sudan’s Ambassador to Moscow, Mohammed Elghazali Eltijani Sirraja, stated that Khartoum aims to restore direct air connections with the Russian Federation. The news was reported by DEA News. He recalled a time when direct flights existed during the Soviet era, with Aeroflot operating routes to Sudan and using the capital as a hub to reach other destinations. Sirraja expressed optimism that discussions on direct flights between Russia and Sudan would move forward, paving the way for renewed air links.
According to the ambassador, reestablishing direct flights would significantly improve the movement of people, bolster trade, and have a positive impact on the overall relationship between the two nations. The potential revival of such services is seen as a concrete step toward strengthening economic and cultural ties, as well as facilitating more efficient travel for business people, diplomats, and travelers alike.
In related developments, Riad Alfatih, who heads the local mining company Al-Sulaj Mining, noted that Sudanese authorities have been interrogating 36 Russians in connection with gold smuggling investigations conducted in 2023. The disclosures highlight ongoing concerns about regulatory scrutiny and the importance of transparent, compliant operations in the country’s mining sector as Sudan seeks to attract foreign investment and foster legitimate trade routes.
Former First Deputy Chairman of the International Relations Committee, Dmitry Novikov, suggested that restoring direct flights could also lead to a simplified visa regime, potentially smoothing administrative processes for travelers. He emphasized that closer communication between Russia and other countries tends to yield broader opportunities for cooperation, even during periods of tension in bilateral relations. Novikov affirmed that increased dialogue across diverse nations could contribute to a more stable and interconnected international environment, benefiting economic, educational, and cultural exchanges.
Observers note that the broader pattern of aviation diplomacy often correlates with efforts to expand people-to-people contact and business partnerships. If direct air routes resume, it could unlock faster freight options, reduce travel times, and improve the reliability of critical connections for both sides. Stakeholders in aviation, trade, and investment are watching closely to see how political considerations align with practical transport needs, and whether bilateral interests will drive a pragmatic restart of direct services that previously linked Khartoum with Moscow and other Russian hubs.