Sudan’s president visits Qatar amid protests

Sudan’s President Omar al-Bashir is in Qatar on his first trip abroad since a wave of anti-government protests began last month.

Sudanese officials say Mr Bashir will discuss the peace process in the restive western region of Darfur, but analysts say he is also seeking assistance for Sudan’s battered economy BBC reported.

Cuts to government bread and fuel subsidies sparked the demonstrations against his government.

Anger at economic hardship has been stoked by a heavy-handed response by the authorities that has led to dozens of deaths, and the protesters are now calling for Mr Bashir to resign.

Overnight police clashed with demonstrators who had blocked roads in Khartoum with burning tyres.

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Sheikh Tamim was among the first leaders to express support for Bashir after the protests broke out, saying Qatar was ready to offer all necessary help, according to Bashir’s office.

The tiny but wealthy Gulf state has yet to announce any financial aid.

Qatar is vying with rivals in the region for influence in Sudan and other countries on the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.