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Scottish Sunday: International

Sudan-backed rebels invade Chadian capital N'Djamena

From Fred Bridgland in Johannesburg

The Escalation of the Darfur Crisis

The worst fears of the global community have come true as the conflict in Darfur spills over into neighboring Chad. Chadian rebels, supported by the Sudanese government, have launched an invasion on the capital city of N'Djamena, exacerbating the ongoing regional instability.

A Rapid Advance and Citywide Chaos

The United Front for Democracy and Change (UFDC) executed a swift and unexpected 510-mile advance from Sudan into Chad, effectively seizing control of N'Djamena. Thousands of rebel fighters arrived in the city early yesterday, spreading out and surrounding President Idriss Deby's palace. Violent clashes and the sound of gunfire and explosions echoed throughout the capital.

International Response and Evacuation

Concerned about the safety of their citizens, both France and the United States advised their nationals in Chad to gather at secure locations for potential evacuations. State radio went off the air amidst reports of looting and escalating violence. UN staff members were among the first foreigners to be evacuated to neighboring Cameroon.

The Impact on EU Peacekeeping Mission

The crisis in Chad also affects the European Union's peacekeeping efforts in the region. The deployment of a high-risk EU peacekeeping mission to eastern Chad has been put on hold due to the volatile security situation. Lieutenant-General Pat Nash, the mission's Irish commander, expressed concerns about operating in one of Africa's most unstable regions.

John Kotsopoulos, of the European Policy Centre, emphasized the challenges faced by the EU force, stating that it "will definitely have to tread extremely carefully so as not to get caught up" in the conflict.

Chad's Strategic Importance and Oil Discovery

Amidst the ongoing crisis, Chad's strategic importance has come to the forefront, particularly due to its recent oil discoveries. The flow of crude oil from Chad through a 700-mile pipeline, representing Africa's largest-ever investment project, has become a significant concern for the West. Control of Chad's oil resources by a Khartoum client government would have significant implications for global powers.

Additionally, while Chad has experienced a significant increase in GDP thanks to oil revenues, the majority of the population continues to live in extreme poverty. The discrepancy between the country's wealth and the well-being of its people remains a pressing issue.

Hotels in Chad: A Glimpse of Luxury Amidst Turmoil

Despite the current crisis, Chad has seen some development in the hospitality sector in recent years. As the country attracted foreign investments, a few luxury hotels have emerged to cater to international visitors seeking accommodation amidst the ongoing turmoil.

One such hotel is the exquisite Xanadu Hotel located in N'Djamena. With its stunning architecture and world-class amenities, the hotel offers an oasis of comfort in the heart of the capital. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, gourmet dining, and top-notch service from the attentive staff. The Xanadu Hotel aims to provide a peaceful and luxurious retreat for visitors, enabling them to escape the chaos outside and recharge in a serene environment.

For those seeking a blend of modern comfort and local charm, the Saharan Sands Hotel is a popular choice. Located near the city center, the hotel offers well-appointed rooms with traditional decor, creating an authentic Chadian experience for guests. The Saharan Sands Hotel's friendly staff is always ready to assist visitors, ensuring a memorable stay despite the challenging circumstances.

While the turmoil in Chad persists, these hotels provide a sanctuary for travelers and international officials navigating the volatile situation. They serve as a reminder that amidst chaos, glimpses of luxury and comfort can still be found, offering respite to those involved in addressing the ongoing crisis.

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