Egypt emphasizes no-harm principle, rejects unilateral actions among Nile Basin countries

CAIRO- 12 February 2026: Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation and achieving mutual benefit among Nile Basin countries in accordance with international law—particularly the principles of prior notification, consultation, non-harm, and the rejection of unilateral actions. 

Abdelatty’s comments were given during a meeting with bilateral meeting with Monday Samaya Kumba, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of South Sudan, on the sidelines of their participation in the meetings of the African Union Peace and Security Council.

He reaffirmed Egypt’s support for the Nile Basin Initiative and its ongoing consultative process aimed at restoring inclusivity. He also emphasized Egypt’s commitment to continued coordination with South Sudan to enhance prospects for consensus, ensure the river’s sustainability, protect its environment, and maximize its potential as a source of cooperation and shared development for all Nile Basin states.

Additionally, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Ambassador Tamim Khallaf underscored that Egypt’s water security is a matter of existential importance and is non-negotiable. He stated that Egypt’s position is grounded in adherence to the rules of international law governing shared water resources. 

Egypt also rejects unilateral actions in the Eastern Nile Basin that contravene international legal principles.

During a meeting with accredited diplomatic editors on Thursday, the spokesperson emphasized that consensus is a fundamental principle governing relations among riparian states in transboundary waterways. He welcomed President Donald Trump’s interest in Egypt’s water security and his recognition of the Nile River’s vital importance to the Egyptian people, for whom it represents a lifeline. 

The spokesman added that Egypt remains committed to serious and constructive cooperation with Nile Basin countries, based on international law and aimed at advancing common interests without causing harm to any party. These principles constitute the foundation of Egypt’s position.