In an article published in the Arabic-language newspaper "Al-Mawqif", Anyewil Lazru Kon stated that he was responding to Minister Akok Makor's recent comments that South Sudan was not afraid of Egypt's reaction to its plans to build dams on the Nile River. Kon emphasized that his country has the right to develop and utilize its water resources. However, he expressed concerns that the project could harm relations with Egypt, a long-standing partner for South Sudan.
Kon argued that the relationship between countries should not be managed solely by courage, but also by wisdom and careful consideration of words and actions. He warned that South Sudan's relations with Egypt could be damaged if the dam project is perceived as a challenge to Egyptian interests. Kon also noted that many South Sudanese citizens benefit from educational, medical, and cooperative opportunities in Egypt, and that these relationships could be jeopardized.
The writer emphasized that the proposed dam project, known as the Fula dam, is not an end in itself, but rather a means to provide electricity and promote development in South Sudan. He suggested that the project could be presented to Egypt as an opportunity for cooperation and collaboration, rather than a challenge. Kon proposed that South Sudan could seek Egypt's technical expertise and financial support for the project, and that this could be a way to strengthen bilateral relations.
Kon, a seasoned lawyer, drew parallels between diplomacy and courtroom advocacy, emphasizing the need for calm and persuasive argumentation. He suggested that South Sudan could tell Egypt: "We want development, and we want you to be part of it." Kon proposed that his country could seek more Egyptian support in areas such as education, healthcare, and capacity building, and that a long-term strategic partnership between the two countries could be established.
The article noted that Egypt and South Sudan have existing cooperation in areas such as water, energy, and capacity building. Kon argued that the Fula dam project could be defended if it serves the interests of the South Sudanese people, and that studies and guarantees could be presented to address any concerns. He emphasized that sovereignty does not have to be in conflict with consultation and cooperation.
Kon concluded that his country's fear is not of Egypt, but of losing a valuable relationship that could have been beneficial. He expressed concerns that a careless word or action could damage relations between the two countries, and that the Nile River, which connects them, should be a symbol of cooperation and development, rather than a source of tension.
Key points
- The writer, Anyewil Lazru Kon, urges caution and cooperation with Egypt over the proposed Fula dam project on the Nile River.
