Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Egypt Independent
Published on 2024-03-04 11:15:17
During a ministerial consultative meeting between Egypt and the Gulf Cooperation Council in Riyadh, Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry issued a warning regarding the threat to Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity posed by Ethiopia. Shoukry highlighted that Ethiopia’s recent agreement with Somaliland to gain access to the Red Sea is a significant concern. Egypt vehemently rejects this development, emphasizing that it undermines the sovereignty of an Arab nation and constitutes a violation of the United Nations Charter.
Shoukry reiterated that Ethiopia’s actions reflect a pattern of pursuing its own interests at the expense of others, as demonstrated by its behavior during the negotiations regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). Egypt’s decision to withdraw from these negotiations was driven by the realization that they were not leading to any meaningful outcomes. President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has previously affirmed Egypt’s commitment to protecting Somalia and its security from any perceived threats.
In December, the Egyptian Ministry of Irrigation announced the conclusion of the latest round of GERD negotiations involving Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia. Unfortunately, the negotiations failed to produce agreement, with Ethiopian positions remaining unchanged. In response, Egypt declared an end to the negotiating tracks and stated its intent to closely monitor the filling and operation of the GERD. The statement also underscored Egypt’s readiness to defend its water resources and national security if they are endangered by the Dam’s operations.
For over a decade, Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia have engaged in negotiations aimed at reaching a consensus on the filling and operation of the GERD. Despite numerous rounds of talks, a comprehensive agreement has yet to be reached. The impasse in negotiations underscores the challenges and complexities involved in managing shared water resources and balancing competing national interests.
The ongoing dispute over the GERD highlights the broader geopolitical tensions in the region, with countries seeking to assert their strategic interests and regional influence. Egypt’s proactive stance in safeguarding its water resources and national security reflects the high stakes involved in the negotiations and the potential ramifications for regional stability.
As the situation continues to evolve, it is essential for all parties involved to engage in constructive dialogue and seek mutually acceptable solutions to address the concerns and interests of all stakeholders. Finding a sustainable resolution to the GERD dispute is crucial for promoting stability, cooperation, and shared prosperity in the region. Egypt’s unwavering commitment to defending Somalia’s sovereignty underscores the importance of upholding international law and respecting the rights of sovereign nations in the pursuit of regional peace and security.
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