EGYPT disclosed on Tuesday that the recent discussions revolving around the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) have hit a deadlock, attributing the failure to Ethiopia’s unyielding stance against considering any compromise solutions. The Ministry of Irrigation in Egypt released a statement asserting the lack of progress in the latest meeting convened in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa.
According to the ministry’s statement, Ethiopia’s persistent refusal to entertain technical or legal compromise solutions, safeguarding the interests of all three involved nations, thwarted any substantial outcome. The statement further highlighted concerns that Ethiopia appeared to be exploiting the negotiation process to assert control over the Blue Nile without adhering to international obligations.
Consequently, Egypt declared the conclusion of negotiations, emphasising its commitment to vigilantly monitor the dam’s filling and operations. The statement underscored Egypt’s intention to uphold its rights, in line with international charters and agreements, to protect its water and national security in case of any perceived threats or harm.
Despite Egypt’s announcement, there have been no official remarks from Ethiopia or Sudan regarding the matter.
The failed talks mark the end of four rounds of negotiations that followed a hiatus of over two years, initiated after discussions collapsed among the three nations in April 2021. Prior attempts, including an African Union initiative aimed at reconciling differing viewpoints, have not succeeded in bridging the gaps.
Egypt and Sudan have consistently emphasised the necessity of reaching a binding agreement with Ethiopia regarding the filling and operation of the dam. Their primary concern remains ensuring the continuous flow of their respective shares of Nile River water.
Adding tension to the situation, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced on September 10 the completion of the fourth stage of dam filling, a move contested by Cairo as a ‘new violation’ by Addis Ababa.
The impasse underscores the complexities and divergent interests among the nations involved, emphasising the criticality of addressing shared concerns for equitable water usage and preservation of downstream nations’ rights.