Egypt rejects Nile water security compromise
President Al-Sisi stated Egypt will not accept a fait accompli regarding its water security from the Nile.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi declared on Sunday that Egypt will not accept a fait accompli or compromise its water security, stating that the right to development for Nile Basin countries should not harm others. Speaking at the ninth Cairo Water Week, Al-Sisi emphasized that the Nile provides over 98% of Egypt’s renewable water resources amidst population growth and rising demand.
Al-Sisi asserted that any assumption of Egypt accepting a fait accompli on water security is a losing bet, noting that a river's headwaters do not grant unilateral control. He affirmed Egypt's recognition of Nile Basin countries' right to development if exercised responsibly and in accordance with international law, highlighting past cooperation on energy and agriculture projects built on prior notification and consultations.
Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Hani Sewilam announced Egypt's commitment to water as a "bridge for cooperation" and detailed efforts in water-use efficiency and infrastructure upgrades under the "Water System 2.0" program. The ninth Cairo Water Week, themed "Water as a Catalyst for Peace, Shared Prosperity and a Sustainable Planet," runs until October 29 with 21 ministers participating.
Why it mattersPresident Al-Sisi's statements directly address Egypt's national water security concerns related to the Nile River.