Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssef discussed Nile water sharing with Egyptian counterpart Sameh Shoukry amid the new Nile Basin treaty. Both nations oppose the treaty, arguing it contravenes international law, especially regarding Ethiopia’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which is near completion. The discussion highlights ongoing tensions over Nile resource management and representation among member states.
On November 4, 2024, Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Youssef engaged in discussions with his Egyptian counterpart, Sameh Shoukry, regarding the contentious issues surrounding the Nile Basin and a regional water treaty that recently came into effect. This conversation occurred in the context of the Nile Basin treaty, which has faced opposition from both Sudan and Egypt, particularly as it facilitates the formation of a Nile River Basin Commission, a move that has been criticized by both nations as they contend that it undermines existing international laws governing the shared waters. Foreign Minister Youssef expressed Sudan’s commitment to close cooperation with Egypt on Nile River matters. The ministers discussed not only the implications of the treaty but also the challenges posed by Ethiopia’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which is relatively close to completion. The dialogue underscores the tensions between the riparian states over water rights and the equitable sharing of the Nile River’s resources. In addition to the bilateral talks, several ministers from various Nile Basin countries arrived in Addis Ababa to discuss further the establishment of the Nile River Basin Commission, an initiative that Sudan and Egypt claim does not adequately represent all states sharing the Nile Basin’s waters. The upcoming tour of the GERD demonstrates the ongoing deliberations on this pressing regional issue.
The Nile River, one of the longest rivers in the world, is crucial for the livelihoods of millions in Sudan and Egypt. Its waters are a vital resource, particularly for agricultural and drinking needs. The Nile Basin treaty, which South Sudan joined in July 2024, aims to facilitate cooperative water management and development; however, it has faced strong opposition from Ethiopia, Uganda, Tanzania, and others. Sudan and Egypt have historically held claims to a significant share of the Nile, drawing the lines of tension related to Ethiopia’s ambitious dam project, the GERD, which they believe threatens their water security.
In summary, the discussions between Sudan’s and Egypt’s foreign ministers reveal the ongoing complexities surrounding the Nile Basin treaty and the associated regional dynamics. Both countries continue to oppose the newly ratified treaty, citing concerns over international law and equitable water distribution. The situation is compounded by the nearing completion of Ethiopia’s GERD, which poses significant implications for the management and sharing of the Nile’s waters.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
