Egypt and Sudan Renew Firm Rejection of Unilateral Moves in Eastern Nile Basin

Egypt and Sudan have reaffirmed their categorical rejection of any unilateral measures in the Eastern Nile Basin that could harm the water interests of downstream countries, following high-level talks in Cairo on Thursday, February 26, 2026.

The meeting brought together Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and Sudan’s Transitional Prime Minister Kamel Idris to discuss strengthening bilateral relations and coordinating positions on key regional issues.

Both sides stressed the depth of the historic ties between the two nations and their shared commitment to advancing cooperation in ways that support regional security, stability, and development. Egypt reiterated its full support for Sudan’s unity, sovereignty, and national institutions, emphasizing the importance of empowering the Sudanese state to restore stability and alleviate the humanitarian impact of the ongoing conflict.

Kamel Idris expressed appreciation for Egypt’s continued political and humanitarian support, describing it as a reflection of the enduring “Nile Valley brotherhood” between the two countries.

The talks also focused on expanding economic, trade, and investment cooperation, with Egypt expressing readiness to contribute to Sudan’s reconstruction—particularly in infrastructure, electricity, and water sectors—and to transfer its technical expertise in major development projects.

On Nile water issues, Cairo and Khartoum underscored that the water security of both countries is inseparable and must be protected in accordance with the 1959 Nile Waters Agreement and international law. The two sides agreed to maintain full coordination in regional and international forums dealing with Nile matters.

They jointly reiterated their absolute rejection of any unilateral actions in the Eastern Nile Basin that could threaten downstream water rights, warning that such steps would constitute a persistent source of regional instability. The two countries called on Ethiopia to abandon unilateral approaches and adhere to international legal principles governing shared rivers, particularly prior notification, consultation, consensus, and the obligation not to cause significant harm.

Egypt and Sudan also agreed to continue engagement within the Nile Basin Initiative (NBI) consultation process and welcomed progress made so far, including recommendations to continue dialogue and consider amendments or additional protocols that address the concerns of all basin states.

The two prime ministers further agreed to maintain close coordination through the Joint Technical Commission for Nile Waters and to intensify bilateral visits and cooperation across multiple sectors, reflecting what both sides described as a strategic and deeply rooted partnership.