The Significance of the Belt and Road Initiative in Sudan–China Relations: Opportunities and Challenge

ABSTRACT : The article investigates the importance of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) (formerly the One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative) to the relations between Sudan and China, with a focus on opportunities, challenges, and infrastructure cooperation. It examines the core aspects of bilateral ties between Sudan and China, the level of BRI implementation in Sudan, and the potential impact of BRI on Sudan's economic and infrastructure development. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach and secondary data sources, including academic literature, policy documents, official reports, and institutional documents. Furthermore, the SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analytical framework is used to analyze Sudan's engagement in the BRI and the institutional, political, and economic conditions affecting the implementation of BRI projects in Sudan. The results reveal that throughout its history, infrastructure investment, energy agreements, and economic cooperation have contributed to Sudan-China relations. The report highlights opportunities for deepening cooperation between Sudan and China in infrastructure and transport, particularly in the railway sector, given Sudan's strategic position along the Red Sea and its infrastructure needs. Yet several challenges remain in implementing BRI-related projects in Sudan, including political instability, lack of institutional coordination, financial constraints, security concerns, and governance restrictions. The research conducted for the Port Sudan-Adré railway project reveals the absence of integrated institutional procedures and financial mechanisms to facilitate its realization, even after the project has passed the feasibility stage and received political support. The article's conclusion argues that institutional coordination should be reinforced, governance and policy harmonization strengthened, investment and funding mechanisms improved, and infrastructure planning coordinated with Sudan's long-term development agenda to enable Sudan to benefit from the BRI. The report recommends supporting intergovernmental coordination mechanisms, developing regulations, and building strong ties with international and regional financial partners to support sustainable infrastructure development and regional economic integration.