Ambassador Zerihun Abebe, director of African affairs at Ethiopia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, states that fair utilization of Nile waters is ensured only through cooperation and diplomacy. This assertion comes amid tensions surrounding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
Addis Ababa, October 9, 2018 (Fana FM C) – Ambassador Zerihun Abebe told Fana Digital that unconfirmed false information and accusations are circulating from parties seeking to manage the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam under their jurisdiction, based on the Blue Nile's ownership in Ethiopian territory since its inception. Recently, Sudan attempted to link a border incident to the dam, which they denied.
Egypt's direct threat against Ethiopia received an appropriate response from the Ministry of Water and Energy. Ambassador Zerihun described Ethiopia's development on the Blue Nile as an act of legitimate use, for future generations, and common benefit, expecting benefits from the base if taxes are paid.
"The Nile Basin ownership concept and law from colonial times has reached an outdated idea of sole use; it should be updated together for joint utilization," the ambassador stated. He emphasized that ensuring Nile water fairness through cooperation and diplomacy avoids cycles of hostility and alliance. The GERD, built solely by Ethiopia, strengthens cooperation among Nile Basin peoples and provides a viable financial option for downstream countries in this context.