Egyptian Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Hani Suwelim, has addressed the ongoing dispute over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Nile River. In a recent phone interview with Amr Adib on MBC Egypt's program "Al-Hakaya," Suwelim stated that Egypt is open to negotiations with Ethiopia, but only if certain conditions are met. He emphasized that Egypt will not engage in lengthy negotiations that could span 13 to 15 years without a clear agreement.
Suwelim stressed that the GERD issue remains unresolved from Egypt's perspective. He noted that while Egypt acknowledges the dam's construction, it does not imply that the matter is closed. Egypt views the dam as a project that was initiated in 2011 without prior consensus with the downstream countries, namely Egypt and Sudan. Furthermore, Egypt has expressed concerns over subsequent violations of the 2015 Declaration of Principles.
The 2015 Declaration of Principles was signed by Egypt, Ethiopia, and Sudan to facilitate cooperation and communication on the GERD. However, Egypt has repeatedly expressed concerns that Ethiopia's actions, including the commencement of the dam's filling and operation, contravene the declaration and relevant international law. In September 2025, Egypt informed the UN Security Council of its objections to the dam's unilateral opening and operation.
Suwelim highlighted that Egypt's concerns over the GERD are rooted in the country's need to protect its water security. He emphasized that the Nile River is a vital source of water for Egypt, and any actions that threaten this resource will be met with a strong response. Egypt's stance is that the dam's filling and operation must be conducted in a manner that takes into account the interests of all parties involved.
The dispute over the GERD has been ongoing for several years, with Egypt and Sudan expressing concerns over the potential impacts on their water security and economies. Ethiopia, on the other hand, views the dam as a crucial project for its economic development. The international community has been closely watching the situation, with some countries calling for a peaceful resolution through negotiations.
Suwelim reiterated that Egypt will continue to pursue diplomatic and legal avenues to protect its water security. He emphasized that the country's water resources are essential for the well-being of its citizens and the stability of the state. Egypt's position on the GERD is guided by its commitment to upholding its rights under international law.
The situation surrounding the GERD remains complex, with multiple stakeholders involved. Egypt's willingness to negotiate under clear conditions may pave the way for future talks. However, a resolution to the dispute will likely require a concerted effort from all parties involved.
Key points
- Egypt's Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Hani Suwelim, stated that Egypt will not engage in lengthy negotiations over the GERD without clear conditions.
- Egypt views the GERD as a project that was initiated in violation of international law, specifically the 2015 Declaration of Principles.
- Egypt will continue to protect its water security through diplomatic and legal means, emphasizing the importance of the Nile River for its citizens and state stability.
