Sudan has enforced visa entry for Egyptians entering its borders to avoid terrorism, reports Daily News Egypt.
Sudan Foreign Minister announced that Egyptian men aged between 18 and 50 will be required to apply for visa to enter the country, however, women children and men over 50 years of age will still be allowed to enter without a visa.
The Sudanese authorities explained that the decision was reached after consultations and in agreement with Egypt.
“The decision of imposing visas for Egyptians was taken after consultations between the two countries.. It aims to ensure organized entry of citizens in both countries and to prevent terrorist elements from entering.” Sudanese Foreign Minister Ibrahim Ghandour told reporters.
According to Sudan Tribune, Observers in Khartoum close to the file of bilateral relations between Sudan and Egypt said this decision might be triggered by security concerns following the arrest of several Arab nationals including Egyptians after an explosion at a residential building in Khartoum where it uncovered base ingredients for fabricating a bomb last February.
The decision comes two days before a meeting of the joint political consultations committee between Sudan and Egypt scheduled for Sunday in Khartoum.
Egyptians have enjoyed visa-free access to Sudan since 2004
Sudanese media outlets have reported that Sudan made the decision since Egypt also demands that Sudanese obtain visas before entering Egypt.
