Ethiopia summoned the Sudanese envoy following remarks by Sudan’s foreign minister that hinted at potential military action over disputes related to the GERD. Ethiopia expressed dissatisfaction yet emphasized cooperation and dialogue. Foreign ministry officials indicated continued support for regional stability and development initiatives under the Nile Basin Agreement.
Ethiopia has summoned the Sudanese ambassador in response to comments made by Sudan’s acting foreign minister, which suggested the possibility of war due to unresolved disputes over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). In a television interview, Acting Foreign Minister Ali Youssif indicated that Sudan might align with Egypt if discussions failed, leaving the option for military action against Ethiopia on the table. Ethiopia’s foreign ministry expressed dissatisfaction with these remarks during the meeting with Ambassador Al-Zein Ibrahim, while affirming its dedication to nurturing robust relations with Sudan. As the diplomatic landscape continues to evolve, it is anticipated that Youssif will visit Addis Ababa to clarify his statements, although it remains noted that he has not yet formally presented his credentials to the Ethiopian president. Foreign ministry spokesperson Nebiat Getachew sought to downplay tensions arising from the incident, describing the relationship with Sudan as cooperative and strategic. He dismissed allegations of instability stirred by social media and reiterated Ethiopia’s commitment to resolving the GERD discourse through dialogue. Getachew underscored that the GERD does not threaten any downstream nations, referencing over a decade of experience which shows that Sudan was not adversely affected during the dam’s filling. Instead, he presented the potential for regional economic integration stemming from the GERD, and he firmly rejected foreign intervention in Sudan’s internal issues. Additionally, he announced that the Nile Basin Agreement has been activated with South Sudan’s ratification, thereby facilitating upcoming donor-funded development initiatives. Moreover, during this address, Getachew reaffirmed Ethiopia’s steadfast support for Somalia’s ongoing stability and its concerted actions against the al Shabaab group.
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has been a contentious issue among Ethiopia, Sudan, and Egypt for several years, primarily due to concerns surrounding water rights and management of the Nile River. Ethiopia’s construction of the dam aims to bolster its energy capacity and economic development, while both Sudan and Egypt have raised apprehensions regarding water flow and their respective rights. Diplomatic engagements have been crucial in attempting to reach consensus among the three nations, but disagreements persist, evidenced by recent comments from Sudan’s acting foreign minister that have escalated tensions between Ethiopia and Sudan.
The recent summoning of Sudan’s ambassador by Ethiopia highlights the complexities surrounding the GERD issue and the potential for escalating tensions should diplomatic negotiations falter. Despite this incident, Ethiopian officials reiterate their commitment to dialogue and collaboration with Sudan, ultimately aiming for peaceful resolutions and regional stability. As Ethiopia continues to engage with both Sudan and Egypt, the focus remains on forging enduring relationships while safeguarding national interests concerning the Nile’s resources.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
