SUDAN NEWS ALERT: AFP - US envoys open Sudan bank accounts for first time in decades

16/10/19: AFP - US envoys open Sudan bank accounts for first time in decades

 AFP reports that four US diplomats opened accounts at a Sudanese bank for the first time in decades, as Khartoum seeks to draw international businesses back to the country to help revive the ailing economy.

 "We lifted economic sanctions in 2017 and we want to show that Sudan is open for business, that banks, international banks and businesses are welcome back here," Ellen Thorburn, deputy chief of mission at the US embassy in Khartoum told AFP

 "The timing seemed right now with the civilian led transitional government and the changes that they are enacting," Thorburn said.

 She also cited the "dramatic changes" Sudan has witnessed this year as an incentive.