Egypt and Uganda Enhance Bilateral Cooperation on Nile River Management
On December 4, 2024, Egypt and Uganda signed a joint declaration to strengthen bilateral cooperation and regularly consult on Nile River management. The agreement emphasizes mutual benefits and the importance of complying with international law. It outlines collaboration in various sectors, including water management, agriculture, and defense, while reinforcing commitment to regional stability.
On December 4, 2024, the foreign ministers of Egypt and Uganda, Badr Abdelatty and Henry Okello, respectively, formalized their commitment to enhancing bilateral relations through a joint declaration signed in Cairo. The declaration outlines mutual cooperation regarding the management of Nile River waters, emphasizing the importance of reaching agreements that benefit both nations while adhering to international law. This collaboration is intended to benefit both countries and promote broader regional interests within Africa.
The agreement arose from high-level political consultations, which included a Ugandan delegation comprising senior officials, such as Minister of Water and Environment, Sam Cheptoris. Both parties highlighted the significance of Nile River management and agreed to engage in continued dialogue on this issue to prevent disruptions to water supply.
In addition to water cooperation, the joint declaration emphasizes enhanced collaboration in various sectors, including defense, security, and agriculture. Egypt has expressed its intention to invest in development projects that align with Uganda’s national priorities, following a successful model exemplified by the Owen Falls Dam. Minister Okello reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to maintaining the Nile’s water supply, denouncing efforts to alter established agreements to the detriment of downstream nations.
The cooperation also extends to the private sector, encouraging trade and investment through initiatives that facilitate synergy between the two economies. Both nations aim to engage collaboratively in regional forums, such as the African Union and the United Nations, underlining their mutual commitment to shared goals within the wider context of African development.
The Nile River represents an essential water source for several countries in the region, notably Egypt and Sudan, both of which historically rely on the river’s waters. The signing of joint declarations such as the one between Egypt and Uganda reflects ongoing diplomatic efforts to manage this critical resource amid competing interests. Uganda’s involvement in the Entebbe Agreement poses challenges to Egypt and Sudan, who reject provisions that threaten their historical water shares. The recent engagement between Egypt and Uganda signifies a step toward constructive dialogue amidst these contentious issues.
The joint declaration between Egypt and Uganda marks a strategic move towards enhancing bilateral relations and fostering cooperation on Nile River management. By committing to regular consultations and collaborative projects across multiple sectors, both nations aim to promote regional stability and development while respecting mutual interests. This agreement highlights the necessity of dialogue in managing shared resources effectively and ensuring the welfare of nations reliant on the Nile.
Original Source: www.egypttoday.com
