Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sissi welcomed his Burundian counterpart, Évariste Ndayishimiye, currently chairing the African Union, on the sidelines of the Al-Alamein-Africa Business Forum in New Alamein. Al-Sissi commended Ndayishimiye's efforts in promoting African cooperation and integration, as well as implementing the African Union's Agenda 2063. The Egyptian president expressed his country's commitment to supporting the African Union's role in peacefully resolving conflicts and crises.
The two leaders examined ways to enhance bilateral relations between Egypt and Burundi. Al-Sissi reaffirmed Egypt's dedication to developing economic cooperation and partnerships in areas such as infrastructure, agriculture, irrigation, water resources, energy, healthcare, and capacity building. He emphasized the importance of leveraging Egyptian companies' expertise to contribute to development projects in Burundi, benefiting both nations.
Ndayishimiye expressed his desire to convene a joint commission between the two countries soon. He praised the growth of Egyptian-Burundian relations and Egypt's willingness to strengthen cooperation and share expertise in various development areas. The Burundian president highlighted Egypt's role in supporting development efforts and promoting peace and security on the continent.
The discussion also touched on the Nile water issue. Al-Sissi stressed the need for cooperation among Nile Basin countries based on mutual interests and the principle of not harming any basin state. He reaffirmed Egypt's stance on preserving its water rights and interests, describing the issue as an existential threat to the Egyptian people.
Al-Sissi emphasized Egypt's support for development efforts in all Nile Basin countries. He cautioned against unilateral measures that could harm the interests of other basin states. The Egyptian president reiterated his country's commitment to coordinating and consulting with Burundi and other African nations to promote stability and address development aspirations.
Ndayishimiye reaffirmed Burundi's commitment to close coordination and consultation with Egypt within the African Union and on common issues. He acknowledged Egypt's role in supporting development and peace on the continent. The Burundian president expressed his country's appreciation for Egypt's willingness to share its expertise and experience.
The meeting between Al-Sissi and Ndayishimiye reflects the growing importance of Egyptian-Burundian relations and cooperation within the African Union. The two leaders demonstrated their commitment to enhancing bilateral ties, promoting African integration, and addressing regional challenges such as the Nile water issue.
Key points
- Egypt and Burundi aim to strengthen economic cooperation and partnerships in areas like infrastructure and agriculture.
- The two leaders discussed the Nile water issue, emphasizing the need for cooperation and mutual interests among basin states.
- Egypt reaffirmed its support for the African Union's role in peacefully resolving conflicts and promoting development on the continent.
