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Egypt and Sudan held high-level talks in Cairo on Sunday, focusing on critical issues of water security and Somalia’s stability in the Horn of Africa. The discussions underscore the two nations’ shared concerns over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and their commitment to fostering regional cooperation and security.
Water Security Takes Center Stage
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and his Sudanese counterpart, Ali Al-Sharif, reaffirmed their countries’ commitment to coordinated efforts to safeguard water security. Both nations rely heavily on the Nile River, and the ongoing development of the GERD by Ethiopia has heightened tensions.
“Maintaining coordination between Egypt and Sudan is crucial to protecting our shared water resources,” read a statement from the Egyptian Foreign Ministry.
Ethiopia insists the dam is vital for its development and electricity generation. However, downstream nations Egypt and Sudan fear the project will significantly reduce their share of Nile water, which is essential for drinking, irrigation, and industry. Years of negotiations between the three countries on the dam’s filling and operation have failed to yield a resolution.
Focus on Somalia’s Stability
The ministers also discussed supporting Somalia in its fight against terrorism while emphasizing the importance of respecting Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia have risen since January 2023, when Ethiopia signed an agreement with Somaliland, the breakaway region of Somalia. The deal allowed Ethiopia access to the Somaliland coastline along the Gulf of Aden, sparking diplomatic disputes with Mogadishu.
In December 2024, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced a “historic agreement” between Somalia and Ethiopia aimed at resolving their disputes. Egypt and Sudan both welcomed the agreement, expressing hope for greater stability in the region.
Egypt’s Continued Support for Sudan Amid Conflict
During the talks, Abdelatty reiterated Egypt’s unwavering support for Sudan as the country grapples with an ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The deadly conflict, which erupted in April 2023, has claimed more than 20,000 lives, displaced millions, and left over 25 million people in urgent need of humanitarian aid, according to the United Nations.
Abdelatty called for an immediate cease-fire and urged international cooperation to accelerate the delivery of humanitarian assistance to Sudan.
“Egypt stands in full solidarity with Sudan during this crisis and remains committed to finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict,” Abdelatty said.
Regional Stability and Cooperation
The Cairo meeting reflects the broader regional dynamics in Northeast Africa, where water disputes, security concerns, and political instability often intersect. Egypt and Sudan are not only navigating the challenges posed by GERD but are also focused on supporting Somalia’s stability amid rising tensions with Ethiopia.
The conflict in Sudan further complicates the geopolitical landscape, underscoring the importance of regional cooperation to address shared challenges.