ADDIS ABABA – Prominent Ethiopian media practitioner and advocate of equitable utilization of Nile waters stressed the necessity of fostering economic interdependence among Nile riparian countries.
In an exclusive interview with The Ethiopian Herald, Kings Of Abay Media Manager Ustaz Jemal Bashir indicated that Nile River holds immense potential for strengthening regional cooperation and mutual growth among riparian countries.
Nile is a common resource for all riparian countries and thus enhancing regional cooperation is mandatory, he stressed.
Citing the positive perception of some Egyptian scholars towards the vitality of Nile waters to Ethiopians, Jemal said that the radical thought of some Egyptian conservatives has become less extreme through time.
He suggested the government of Egypt to follow suit considering the need for mutual growth among all Nile riparian countries.
By supplyingsufficient hydropower to Sudan and Egypt and other riparian countries, Ethiopia can meetthe regional energy demand through utilizing its grand dam and other energy generating projects. These countries should also maintain multilateral collaboration in investment, transportation, communication and trade, he stated.
“Joint initiatives for managing water resources are encouraged to ensure equitable distribution and address concerns about water security.”
Ustaz Jemal also emphasized that historical mistrust among the Nile Basin countries concerning water rights must be overcame through dialogues and negotiations, which are still ongoing. Thus confidences should berebuilt as well as mutual understandings need be created.
Using the political and ideologicaldifferences among Ethiopians, there are some external elements who are interfering in the country’s domestic affairs to gain political benefits. However, he noted that Ethiopianshave common values which kept them together in tolerance regardless of any kind of disagreements.
Ustaz Jemal also suggested the need to maintain Ethiopia’s fraternity with the Arab world. “We have preserved a long lasting relationship with Arab Countries especially with the Arab League. This relationship should further be strengthened in trade and investment and other spheres,” he recommended.
BY NAOL GIRMA
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2024
