Ethiopia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has sharply rejected a joint declaration signed by Egypt, Eritrea, Sudan and Somalia, describing it as an attempt to challenge its interests over the Nile and the Red Sea. The declaration was signed at the El-Alamein summit, although the exact date of the summit is not specified. In response, Ethiopia's foreign ministry issued a statement highlighting its geographical significance as the source of the Blue Nile, contributing roughly 85 percent of the river's flow.
The Ethiopian ministry emphasized that any discussions about the Nile must reflect the country's geographical reality as the river's source. The statement also noted Ethiopia's proximity to the Red Sea, with its nearest border only about 30 miles from the coast, underscoring historic and geographic ties to the waterway. This highlights Ethiopia's strategic position in the region and its determination to protect its interests.
The joint declaration, according to the Ethiopian response, reaffirmed principles of avoiding harm to transboundary rivers, opposed unilateral downstream measures and claimed exclusive Red Sea governance for littoral states. Ethiopia, however, warned that geographic and historic facts cannot be altered by political rhetoric, coercive measures or destabilising actions. The country also stated that proxy actions will not change the facts on the ground.
Ethiopia's foreign ministry warned that it stands ready to defend its sovereignty, territorial integrity and core national interests against any perceived threats. The ministry called on regional actors to pursue constructive dialogue, partnership and good-neighborliness rather than confrontation or zero-sum approaches. This reflects Ethiopia's commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region.
The exchange reflects rising diplomatic tension in the Horn of Africa, with disputes over the Nile, the Red Sea and security drawing Ethiopia into direct disagreement with its neighbours and other regional powers. Ethiopia's latest statement signals its unwillingness to accept political declarations it believes challenge its geographical interests or national priorities. The situation is being closely watched by regional and international observers.
The joint declaration was signed by Egypt, Eritrea, Sudan and Somalia, highlighting their shared concerns about the Nile and the Red Sea. However, Ethiopia's rejection of the declaration has created a rift in the region, with Ethiopia seeking to assert its dominance over the Nile and the Red Sea. The country has been keen to develop its ties with other nations and has been involved in several projects to boost its economic and strategic influence.
The situation remains volatile, with Ethiopia and its neighbours holding firm positions on the Nile and the Red Sea. The international community has called for calm and restraint, urging all parties to engage in dialogue to resolve their differences peacefully. Key regional players are now faced with the challenge of balancing their interests with the need for cooperation and stability in the Horn of Africa.
Key points
- Ethiopia rejects joint declaration on Nile and Red Sea signed by Egypt, Eritrea, Sudan and Somalia
- Ethiopia asserts its rights over the Blue Nile and the Red Sea, citing geographical significance
- The situation reflects rising diplomatic tension in the Horn of Africa, with disputes over the Nile, the Red Sea and security.
