Ethiopia Summons Sudanese Ambassador Amid Tensions Over Nile Dam Comments
Ethiopia summoned Sudan’s ambassador following remarks from Sudan’s acting foreign minister suggesting potential military action over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. Ethiopia expressed displeasure while reaffirming its commitment to dialogue and strong relations with Sudan. The relationship remains pivotal as the Nile Basin Agreement takes effect, paving the way for development projects in the region.
On November 14, 2024, Ethiopia’s government summoned Sudan’s ambassador, Al-Zein Ibrahim, in response to comments made by Sudan’s acting foreign minister, Ali Youssif. The minister suggested that Sudan could consider military action against Ethiopia if disputes regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) persist without resolution. Ethiopia’s foreign ministry expressed discontent with these remarks while emphasizing a desire to maintain strong bilateral relations with Sudan. During a press briefing, spokesperson Nebiat Getachew characterized the relationship with Sudan as “developed and strategic,” and underscored Ethiopia’s commitment to resolving GERD-related issues through dialogue. He noted that the dam is not a threat to downstream countries, highlighting that Sudan has not suffered any adverse effects during the dam’s filling process over the past thirteen years. Additionally, Getachew reiterated Ethiopia’s support for regional economic integration that GERD may facilitate and rejected any foreign interference in Sudan’s internal matters. This diplomatic engagement is set against the backdrop of Sudan’s recent ratification of the Nile Basin Agreement, permitting the initiation of donor-funded development projects. Furthermore, Getachew affirmed Ethiopia’s ongoing support for Somalia’s stability and the battle against al Shabaab militants, illustrating the nation’s wider regional commitments.
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a major hydropower project initiated by Ethiopia, has been a source of contention among Ethiopia, Sudan, and Egypt, concerning water rights and usage of the Nile River. The dynamics of this multi-national dialogue are critical, especially as both Sudan and Egypt voice concerns over the dam’s potential impact on their water supplies. The comments by Sudan’s acting foreign minister, indicating a potential for conflict, highlight the fragile nature of these diplomatic relations and the importance of continued dialogue to resolve outstanding issues surrounding the dam.
The exchange between Ethiopia and Sudan underlines the heightened tensions regarding the GERD, illustrating the complexities of regional diplomacy in the face of potential conflict. Ethiopia seeks to downplay the seriousness of the remarks made by Sudan’s minister while emphasizing its commitment to peaceful negotiations. Furthermore, the ratification of the Nile Basin Agreement signifies potential progress in transnational cooperation, despite the challenges that lie ahead. Ethiopia’s pledge of support for Somalia reinforces its regional positioning and illustrates its focus on promoting stability amidst broader concerns in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
