Egyptian Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Hani Suwelim, recently welcomed Sudan's Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, Ismat Qureshi, and his accompanying delegation. This meeting took place following the second session of the 66th round of the Permanent Technical Committee for the Nile River. Both ministers emphasized the depth of historical and fraternal relations between Egypt and Sudan, as well as the shared destiny of the people of the Nile Valley.
During the meeting, Suwelim and Qureshi highlighted that cooperation between Egypt and Sudan on water issues represents a cornerstone for achieving water security and sustainable development in both countries. This cooperation serves as a model based on mutual interests and respect. Suwelim also commended Sudan's distinguished participation in the activities of the 9th Cairo Water Week and the positive outcomes of the Permanent Technical Committee meeting.
The committee, established under the 1959 agreement for the full utilization of the Nile River waters, has for over six decades provided a robust institutional framework for managing cooperation between Egypt and Sudan. It also serves as a technical reference for coordinating positions, exchanging data, and monitoring all matters related to the Nile River. This cooperation aims to preserve the rights and common interests of both countries.
Suwelim and Qureshi reviewed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation that serves the developmental priorities of both nations. This includes technical coordination and the exchange of hydrological data to support the safe operation of Sudanese dams and reservoirs, as well as the High Dam. The focus is also on protecting cities, water facilities, and drinking water and irrigation intakes during the flood season.
The two ministers discussed the final steps for a memorandum of understanding between Egypt and Sudan in the field of water resources. This memorandum covers rainwater harvesting, establishing groundwater treatment plants powered by solar energy, controlling aquatic weeds, and training and capacity-building programs. They agreed to expedite the completion of the necessary procedures for signing the memorandum and starting the implementation of its projects.
The meeting also touched on developments related to the Ethiopian dam. Both ministers reiterated their countries' rejection of any unilateral actions on the Blue Nile. They emphasized the need to adhere to international law, particularly prior notification and not causing harm. The ministers agreed to continue close consultation and coordination between the two countries during the coming phase.
The cooperation between Egypt and Sudan on Nile River management reflects a shared commitment to preserving the river's resources and ensuring sustainable development for both nations. Key aspects of their collaboration include enhancing water security, promoting technical cooperation, and addressing regional water management challenges.
Key points
- Egypt and Sudan are strengthening their cooperation on the management of the Nile River, focusing on water security and sustainable development.
- The two countries are working together on technical coordination, data exchange, and joint projects related to the Nile River.
- They have also agreed to reject any unilateral actions on the Nile River and to adhere to international law in managing the river's resources.
