Egypt Declares Failed Negotiations on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
20/12/2023 22h04

In a recent statement, Egypt has announced the failure of the latest round of negotiations on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). The discussions, which took place in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa, concluded without any results due to Ethiopia's unwillingness to accept compromise solutions that would protect the interests of all three countries involved.

Egypt's Ministry of Irrigation expressed its disappointment, stating that Ethiopia's refusal to embrace any technical or legal compromises shows a disregard for the concerns of Egypt and Sudan. The ministry further highlighted Ethiopia's utilization of the negotiation process as a facade, allowing it to solidify its control over the Blue Nile while disregarding its obligations under international law.

With negotiations reaching an impasse, Egypt declared its intention to closely monitor the filling and operation of the dam. The country emphasized its right, as stipulated in international charters and agreements, to defend its water resources and national security should any harm arise from the dam's activities.

Ethiopia and Sudan have not yet responded to Egypt's statement, and their positions on the matter remain unclear. The negotiations resumed after a hiatus of over two years, following the breakdown of talks in April 2021.

Egypt and Sudan have consistently advocated for the establishment of a binding agreement with Ethiopia regarding the filling and operation of the dam. Both countries believe such an agreement is essential to safeguard their rightful share of the Nile River water.

The recent announcement by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, declaring the success of the fourth stage of dam filling on September 10, has heightened tensions between the countries. Egypt has condemned this move as another violation by Ethiopia, posing a potential threat to the region's water security.

As the dispute surrounding the GERD continues, it remains to be seen how the three nations will resolve their differences and protect their respective interests in the Nile River basin.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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