Despite the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) being a national and sovereign project funded and constructed solely by Ethiopians, Ethiopia has made significant efforts to engage downstream countries and foster a spirit of cooperation. Besides, the country has been eager not only to involve the downstream nations but also to find common ground that allows all the three countries to reap the benefits of this transformative dam.
As a sovereign nation, Ethiopia holds the authority to harness its hydropower potential for the purpose of economic growth and poverty alleviation. Through trilateral talks, the country is actively engaging with downstream countries to find practical solutions that strike a balance between its development aspirations and the concerns of its neighbors.
The trilateral negotiations provide an invaluable opportunity for all countries involved to express their perspectives, voice their concerns, and engage in meaningful discussions to reach a mutually agreeable solution.
Understanding the importance of regional cooperation, Ethiopia has initiated trilateral talks involving Sudan and Egypt, providing a platform for constructive dialogue and collaboration. Through such engagements, the nations aim to address concerns, navigate challenges, and establish frameworks that guarantee sustainable utilization of the Nile River’s resources. This cooperative approach not only safeguards the interests of all participating countries but also promotes long-term regional stability and economic prosperity through the exploitation of renewable energy resources.
By acknowledging the changing dynamics of the Nile basin region and recognizing Ethiopia’s legitimate rights to its own resources, a path can be paved toward a comprehensive agreement that benefits all nations involved. Through genuine dialogue, trust-building efforts, and a commitment to finding common ground, the trilateral negotiations have the potential to foster lasting regional cooperation and ensure the sustainable development of the Nile River’s resources.
While Egypt’s stance has been heavily influenced by historical agreements, these negotiations provide an opportunity to transcend such narratives and seek practical forward-looking solutions. By engaging in a collaborative and inclusive process, all parties involved can work towards a comprehensive agreement that ensures Ethiopia’s development goals are met while respecting the rights and interests of downstream nations.
A cooperative approach can pave the way for long-term regional stability and sustainable development marking a significant step in the quest for equitable and mutually beneficial management of the Nile River’s resources.
Egypt, guided by its colonial influences, has unjustly monopolized the benefits of the shared resources for centuries without facing any opposition or critical examination. This unjust practice has marginalized and sidelined other members of the Nile Basin, particularly Ethiopia, which is the source of the river. Ethiopia has long been kept in the dark, with Egypt reserving exclusive rights to the Nile and leaving other countries as mere bystanders with no say in its management or benefits.
The most recent round of trilateral negotiations took place in the capital city of Ethiopia, Addis Ababa. It proved to be an eagerly anticipated event, as delegates from Ethiopia, Sudan, and Egypt gathered to engage in productive and constructive discussions.
The purpose of this round of negotiations was to further explore and evaluate potential solutions, seeking common ground and finding ways to address any outstanding concerns or disagreements. However, Egypt’s approach in these negotiations has been overshadowed by a tendency to cling to outdated perspectives rooted in the colonial era Nile agreement framework.
Egyptian officials persistently assert that their claims are based on historical rights, employing manipulative tactics that perpetuate an unfair and antiquated system. Cairo appears to be steadfast in its efforts to protect and perpetuate the colonial agreements, investing significant resources and making considerable sacrifices to maintain the status quo. Despite Egypt’s narrative, it is crucial to recognize that the trilateral talks are intended to foster a collaborative environment and encourage all parties to take part in a constructive dialogue.
While Egypt’s reluctance to move away from the colonial-era agreements presents challenges, it is essential to approach the negotiations with an open mind seeking compromise and considering the unique context and needs of all nations. In the spirit of cooperative engagement, it is essential for all parties to transcend historical grievances and embrace a forward-looking approach.
However, despite these encouraging developments, Egypt has persistently acted as a roadblock hindering any attempts at achieving mutual understanding and resolution of GERD-related issues. Egypt’s continuous obstructionist approach undermines the progress and potential for cooperation in the region. By maintaining a rigid and uncompromising stance, Egypt hampers the possibility of reaching mutually beneficial agreements and obstructs the path to resolving unresolved issues relating to the GERD project.
Despite having the sovereign right to develop its resources, Ethiopia has consistently shown goodwill and dedication in ensuring the concerns of downstream nations, like Egypt, are adequately addressed. By proactively engaging in negotiations and working tirelessly to find common ground, Ethiopia has exhibited its willingness to overcome challenges and foster a spirit of cooperation. However, Egypt’s entrenched adherence to historical rights and its refusal to acknowledge the changing dynamics of the Nile Basin perpetuate a deadlock in the negotiations.
Editor’s Note: The views entertained in this article do not necessarily reflect the stance of The Ethiopian Herald
BY ADDISALEM MULAT
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 21 JANUARY 2024
