WASHINGTON — US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken held on Monday talks with Sudanese Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, according to the US Department of State.

The prime minister and the US secretary discussed US support for the civilian-led transitional government’s efforts to advance the peace process, address regional and economic issues, and promote political reforms, the spokesman of the US Department of State, Ned Price, said in a statement.

“Secretary Blinken welcomed the recent declaration of principles signed with the SPLM-N Al Hilu movement, and stressed the importance of ensuring the protection of civilians throughout Sudan,” the statement read.

“They also discussed negotiations related to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, as well as the need to deescalate tensions between Sudan and Ethiopia over the Al-Fashaga border area, including recent commitments to engage in dialogue to resolve the issue,” the statement added. — Agencies