Egypt is updating its dossier on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) crisis, collaborating with Sudanese officials to propose a fresh approach to the long-standing dispute, according to sources from the Egyptian Ministry of Irrigation.
Technical experts have been instructed to compile comprehensive data on the damages Egypt has faced and the investments made in water desalination over the past four years. This effort aims to present a robust case to the incoming US administration under President-elect Donald Trump, whose team has signalled a willingness to prioritise the dam dispute.
The updated file is part of renewed technical and political consultations between Egypt and Sudan, involving their respective Ministries of Irrigation and Foreign Affairs. The ultimate goal is to facilitate a binding agreement with Ethiopia on the operation and filling of the dam, ensuring all parties’ needs and concerns are addressed.
In 2019 and early 2020, negotiations mediated by the Trump administration nearly resulted in an agreement. However, Ethiopia declined to sign the proposed terms, leaving the issue unresolved. Egyptian sources indicate that the Trump team has expressed interest in re-engaging with the GERD dispute, leveraging Egypt’s recent regional mediation efforts, particularly during the Gaza conflict, to foster goodwill.
Cairo hopes the renewed US involvement will lead to a written accord between Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia, balancing the three nations’ interests.
