Egypt Seeks Namibia, Zambia Support in GERD Crisis

According to Al-Monitor, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi hosted officials from Namibia and Zambia who praised Egypt's efforts in supporting the African continent.

Sisi welcomed on Nov. 14 former President of Namibia Sam Nujoma who expressed his gratitude about Egypt's commitment to the "Silencing the Guns in Africa by 2020” campaign launched by the African Union to end wars and conflicts on the African continent.

According to a statement by Egyptian presidential spokesperson Bassam Radi, Nujoma clarified Sisi's major role in finding solutions to multiple African issues.

Nujoma restated Namibia’s support for Sisi’s endeavours to resolve the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam crisis through negotiations, in a way that achieves the interests of the three countries involved.

Sisi announced his will in reaching a legal agreement that would save the country's water share, considering the other countries' ambitions.

Also on Nov. 14, Sisi welcomed Zambia’s Foreign Minister Joseph Malanji, who conveyed a message from Zambian President Edgar Lungu affirming his will to develop bilateral ties and stimulate economic cooperation between the two countries.

The Egyptian Presidency stated on Facebook that Cairo shares the same interests to build bilateral relations with Zambia in all sectors.

Cairo is working to solidify its relations with African countries to improve its image in Africa, protect its water interests and strengthen its position in the GERD affair.

Besides, Cairo has an issue with the Entebbe Agreement signed by 6 countries with Ethiopia, as it denies the historical water rights of Egypt and Sudan.

An anonymous high-ranking Egyptian government official said, "Sisi seeks to build relations with the African countries in the Nile Basin, based on comprehensive development."

He also added, "Creating a bond of trust with African countries will help Cairo in reserving its water rights."

It's noteworthy that Namibia and Zambia have a say in the UN which could benefit Cairo's stance in regards to the GERD crisis.