By RFIPosted on 10-18-2019Modified on 18-10-2019 at 13:50
The tension does not fall between Egypt and Ethiopia around the Renaissance dam built by Addis Ababa on the Blue Nile. Cairo is particularly afraid that the dam will impact its water resources. The last two rounds of talks between Egypt, Ethiopia and Sudan have failed and the Ethiopians do not seem to want to give in.
Ethiopia remains unyielding. On Thursday, the Minister of Water, Seleshi Bekele, explained that a tripartite dialogue was the only option, and that the latest proposals from Cairo violated Ethiopian sovereignty. Egypt wants a minimum of guaranteed water, a filling of the reservoir slower to avoid a shortage especially in case of drought, as well as the presence of its experts on the site.
Unacceptable according to Addis Ababa , which also rejects the involvement of a mediator. Indeed, the Egyptians would like the Americans to play the intermediaries.
Meeting of Heads of State to be held in Sochi
In any case, Ethiopia has not slowed the pace. The dam is almost 70% built. Two turbines could start producing electricity next year. Progress that enrages Cairo. Last week, Egypt found the continuation of the project unacceptable, with possible consequences for regional stability.
For researcher Joseph Siegle, " an armed conflict remains possible, but unlikely. President al-Sisi has already said that there is no military solution, "says the specialist. Despite aggressive rhetoric, the dialogue is not broken and Egypt is trying to soften the position of its neighbor. Abdel Fattah al-Sissi said he is ready to meet with the Ethiopian Prime Minister next week in Sochi during the Russia-Africa summit. The Egyptian president also congratulated Abiy Ahmed for his Nobel Peace Prize.
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Renaissance Dam: Ethiopia accuses Egypt of failed negotiations
Dam of the Renaissance: new block in the discussions
Renaissance dam on the Nile: new tensions appear
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