The meeting participants will review the prospects for the revival of the political process, humanitarian and security situation in Darfur, reconstruction and development of areas affected by the crisis and regional repercussions, according to the foreign ministry.

The aim of the meeting is to rally and unify the international community around the efforts of the African Union and United Nations in Darfur and the entire region, according to the ministry.

The meeting is bringing together major donors, regional organizations from Africa and the Arab world as well as the European Union, UN Security Council and G8 in order to arrive at an "international consensus" on future actions, according to the same source.

The meeting is coming at a time when efforts of the international community are entering "a critical phase."

There are encouraging signs particularly with regard to Sudan's acceptance of a joint AU/UN peacekeeping force in Darfur, revival of regional political dialogue at the highest level and especially between Sudan and Chad, security measures, reconstruction and development of areas affected by the crisis, according to the ministry.