Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty addressed the UN General Assembly, articulating concerns over the Nile water crisis, condemning unilateral actions threatening Somalia’s sovereignty, and criticizing Israeli military activities. He emphasized Egypt’s commitment to cooperative solutions and called for urgent reforms within the UN system.
During the recent General Debate at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty articulated Egypt’s serious concerns regarding the Nile River water crisis. He denounced unilateral actions that jeopardize the sovereignty of Somalia, asserting Egypt’s commitment to a collaborative approach regarding the equitable utilization of the Nile’s resources. Abdelatty specifically criticized Ethiopia’s unilateral management of the Nile River, claiming it violates international law. He stated, “Egypt’s vision for resolving the water crisis was based on benefiting all parties and fair use without harm to downstream countries,” underlining the principles of respect and cooperation among nations. Abdelatty continued to warn, “Anyone who thinks Egypt will compromise on any existential threat is mistaken,” highlighting Egypt’s unyielding stance on the issue concerning Ethiopia’s dam activities. In addition to addressing the Nile dispute, Abdelatty condemned actions that threaten Somalia’s territorial integrity and voiced strong criticism against Israeli military actions in Lebanon and Palestine. He called for an immediate ceasefire, stating, “We condemn the Israeli attacks on Lebanon and call for an immediate ceasefire.” Furthermore, he remarked, “Israel’s brutal aggression in Gaza and the West Bank has exposed the weakness and double standards of the international community,” emphasizing the urgency for reform within the United Nations to properly address global crises. Additionally, Abdelatty elaborated on Egypt’s diplomatic efforts towards resolving conflict in the region, stating, “Egypt and Qatar mediated for an agreement, but Israel obstructed the negotiations.” He also expressed support for a political solution in Sudan to preserve unity and peace, while advocating for a resolution in Libya that culminates in credible presidential and parliamentary elections. This address highlighted Egypt’s foreign policy priorities, emphasizing multi-national cooperation and respect for sovereignty, alongside an appeal for reform within international bodies.
The Nile River is of critical importance to Egypt, constituting a crucial water source for the nation, where issues surrounding its management have become increasingly contentious, especially with Ethiopia’s construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). Egypt fears that this project will disrupt the flow of water downstream and threaten its water security, which is vital for its population and agriculture. Moreover, this situation is compounded by broader geopolitical tensions, including Egyptian relations with Somalia, Israel, and the need for effective resolutions to conflicts in Sudan and Libya.
In summary, Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty’s statements at the UN General Assembly encapsulated Egypt’s firm stance against unilateral actions threatening its water security and regional sovereignty. His remarks underscored the necessity for collaborative multinational dialogues regarding the Nile, the call for immediate resolutions in ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, and a plea for systemic reforms within the United Nations to effectively tackle contemporary global challenges.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
