A thaw in diplomatic tension could usher in a new era of  diplomatic relations between Chad and Sudan as Chadian President, Idriss Deby arrived in Khartoum on Monday to begin bilateral talks with President Omar Al Bashir. Many have hailed Deby’s two day visit as a sign  that both countries are making a concerted effort to normalize relations after diplomatic ties  collapsed with the Darfur crisis.

Sudan’s Foreign Minister, Deng Alor, said for the next two days both countries will attempt to resolve all political issues and that the improved relation will definitely have a positive impact on the Darfur peace talks presently in Doha.

2010 has proven to be a fruitful year for mending the tenuous Chad and Sudan relationship. Last week’s signing of joint military deployments along the Chad-Sudan boarder to end clashes, was the first military agreement signed in five years for both countries.

Deby's visit to Sudan on Monday is another gesture that will, hopefully, strengthen bilateral ties.

In 2008, relations between the two countries soured after Al Bashir accused Chad for instigating attacks in Omdurman, a charge that has been denied by the Chadian government.  Chad, on the other hand, has blamed Khartoum for heavy rebel incursions into Chadian territory, particulary during the Darfur crisis.  Past attempts by Chad and Sudan to meet in Libya, Senegal and Saudi Arabia to negotiate, a truce or compromise, to end hostilities, have all failed.

Idriss and Al Bashir holding direct talks appear to be  critical in improving bilateral understanding and could possibly bring an end to tension between the two countries.