Sudan and Egypt’s foreign ministers discussed Nile water sharing issues amid the new treaty establishing a Nile River Basin Commission. Both countries oppose the treaty, citing violations of international law, and continue to disagree with Ethiopia’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam project. Their cooperation aims to address the complexities surrounding the Nile’s resources.
On November 4, 2024, Sudan’s newly appointed Foreign Minister Ali Youssef engaged in discussions with Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry regarding the contentious Nile Basin and the implications of a recent treaty, as reported by Sudanese diplomatic sources. Their conversation followed the implementation of a Nile Basin treaty, opposed by both countries, which facilitates the establishment of a Nile River Basin Commission, now joined by South Sudan since July. During the phone call, Minister Shoukry sought clarity on Sudan’s stance regarding the treaty. Minister Youssef emphasized Sudan’s dedication to enhancing cooperation with Egypt on issues affecting the Nile River. Both nations have criticized the treaty as infringing upon international law, asserting that the commission does not adequately represent all Nile Basin stakeholders. Additionally, Egypt and Sudan have consistently opposed Ethiopia’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which is nearing completion. On the same day, several ministers from Nile Basin countries congregated in Addis Ababa to address the formation of the commission, with plans to visit the GERD shortly thereafter.
The discussions on Nile water sharing arise amidst significant political and environmental challenges facing the Nile Basin. The Nile River, a critical water source for multiple countries, has become a focal point of contention, particularly due to the ongoing construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which has raised alarms in downstream nations. The recent treaty, which has been formally ratified by some nations but rebuffed by Egypt and Sudan, seeks to institute a framework for the cooperative management of the Nile’s resources through the establishment of a commission, a move perceived as excluding crucial voices in the basin.
In summary, Sudan and Egypt continue to navigate a complex and contentious landscape concerning Nile water sharing, particularly in light of a newly implemented treaty and the ongoing projects like the GERD. Through continued diplomatic engagement, both nations reaffirm their commitment to a collaborative approach while voicing their concerns regarding the treaty’s implications and the representation of all Nile Basin countries. The future of Nile water sharing remains contingent upon both cooperation and negotiations among the involved states.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
