Cairo, Egypt – The Egyptian Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Water Resources and Irrigation issued a joint statement reaffirming Egypt’s unwavering stance on water issues.
The statement emphasized Egypt’s categorical rejection of any unilateral actions that violate international law in the Eastern Nile Basin.
It also affirmed Egypt’s full commitment to its right to take all necessary measures to protect its water security and vital resources.
The statement came following an expanded meeting during which Professor
Dr. Hani Sewilam, Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, received Dr. Badr Abdel Aaty, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigration.
This took place within the framework of coordinating political and technical efforts
between the two ministries at both the regional and international levels.
The meeting discussed ways to strengthen historical relations
and frameworks of cooperation with the sister Nile Basin countries.
It also reviewed the latest developments in the consultative process of the Nile Basin Initiative (NBI).
The aim is to restore consensus and inclusiveness among the basin states.
An existential issue
The two ministers affirmed that Egypt’s water security is an existential issue that is not subject to compromise.
They stressed Egypt’s complete rejection of any unilateral actions
that could harm its water rights or undermine the rules and frameworks governing the use of the Nile River.
and The statement also made clear that Cairo is closely monitoring developments.
It emphasized that it will not hesitate to take all measures guaranteed by international law to protect the interests of its people.
At the same time, the statement reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to the principle of cooperation and mutual benefit with the Nile Basin countries.
and This ensures support for the development paths of these sister nations.
This is to be achieved without prejudice to Egypt’s historical water rights and within the framework of respect for the rules of international law.
100$million in funding
The meeting reviewed Egypt’s pivotal role in supporting development efforts in the Nile Basin countries, particularly those in the southern basin.
A $100 million financing mechanism was launched to fund studies and development projects.
This includes countries like Sudan, South Sudan, Kenya, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and Tanzania.
The statement concluded by emphasizing the continued close consultation
and coordination between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Water Resources and Irrigation.
This is to ensure the protection of Egypt’s water security.
It includes monitoring the implementation of current and future projects and strengthening regional cooperation to serve stability and shared development.
