Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has reaffirmed the country's commitment to a diplomatic approach in dealing with Ethiopia's dam, while emphasizing that this approach will not compromise Egypt's existence and its people. During an expanded meeting at the Strategic Command headquarters in the New Capital, El-Sisi highlighted Egypt's efforts to strengthen domestic water security through desalination, water treatment, and water reuse. He stressed that Egypt will continue to prioritize diplomacy and peaceful solutions.
El-Sisi linked the construction of the Ethiopian dam to Egypt's experience of upheaval between 2011 and 2013, which imposed significant costs on the country. He noted that Egypt lost around $20 billion in Suez Canal revenue due to regional instability. The President also mentioned consecutive crises since 2020, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war, and the war on Gaza, which have pushed up oil and commodity prices, affecting domestic prices.
Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty reinforced Egypt's stance on Ethiopia's dam, stating that Egypt will not accept additional dams or unilateral measures affecting its water share. Abdelatty described water security as "a matter of life or death" and emphasized that Egypt's position is consistent with international law governing boundary waterways. He stressed that Cairo will use the means available under international law to protect its water interests.
Abdelatty also noted that water security features in discussions Egypt holds with world leaders, including during Chinese President Xi Jinping's recent visit to Egypt. The Egypt-China joint statement recognized Egypt's water-security interests and urged Nile Basin states to abide by international law. Abdelatty added that Egypt faces water poverty and needs to double its water allocation rather than preserve the current share to meet growing demand.
El-Sisi further reaffirmed that peace remains Egypt's strategic choice and presented the Palestinian issue as central to stability in the Middle East. He reiterated support for a two-state solution and urged greater public confidence in state institutions. The President also emphasized the need for stronger efforts to counter attempts to spread frustration and misinformation via social media.
Egypt has argued before for a negotiated solution that protects its water rights, and reiterated at the United Nations General Assembly this week that water security is an existential issue. Cairo reserves its legitimate right under international law to safeguard that security. El-Sisi's remarks highlight Egypt's commitment to finding a peaceful solution to the dispute over Ethiopia's dam.
The diplomatic approach adopted by Egypt is aimed at reducing tensions and preventing renewed fighting in the region. El-Sisi and Abdelatty's statements underscore Egypt's determination to protect its water interests and ensure that its voice is heard in international forums. The issue of Ethiopia's dam remains a critical concern for Egypt, and the country's leadership is working to address it through diplomatic channels.
Key points
- Egypt's President Sisi and Foreign Minister Abdelatty stress diplomatic approach on Ethiopia's dam, emphasizing water security and international law.
- Egypt will not accept additional dams or unilateral measures affecting its water share, and will use international law to protect its water interests.
- Egypt faces water poverty and needs to double its water allocation to meet growing demand.
