Egypt, Sudan Warn of Serious Risks from Ethiopia's Unilateral GERD Filling, Call for Peaceful Solutions

Egypt and Sudan have expressed serious concerns over Ethiopia's unilateral filling of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), emphasizing the potential risks, particularly regarding the dam's safety. 

In a joint statement issued today, both countries underscored the need for peaceful and political solutions to the ongoing dispute.

The statement, published by Egypt's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Facebook, followed a consultative meeting of foreign and irrigation ministers from both countries held in Cairo. The meeting concluded with an agreement to organize a high-level workshop with regional and international organizations to discuss water-related issues and their impacts.

Egypt and Sudan reaffirmed that the GERD dispute remains a matter solely involving Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia, and stressed the importance of not involving other Nile Basin countries. They highlighted the necessity of coordinating efforts regionally and internationally to reach a comprehensive, fair, and legally binding agreement on the filling and operation of the dam.

The statement emphasized that Sudan's and Egypt's water security are inseparable and called on all parties to avoid unilateral actions that could harm their water interests.

Furthermore, the two nations reiterated their commitment to working with the Nile Basin Initiative (NBI) countries to restore consensus and revive the NBI’s foundational principles. They emphasized the importance of maintaining the initiative as a comprehensive cooperation mechanism that benefits all Nile Basin countries.

The GERD, situated on the Blue Nile, has been a contentious issue since Ethiopia began construction in 2011. While Ethiopia sees the dam as crucial for its development and energy needs, Egypt and Sudan fear it could threaten their water security. Despite multiple negotiation rounds, the three nations have yet to reach a binding agreement on the dam's operation and water-sharing guidelines.

Egypt and Sudan remain dedicated to pursuing diplomatic avenues and maintaining stability in the Nile Basin region through constructive dialogue and international cooperation.