Cairo: Egyptian President Abdulfattah Al-Sisi emphasized the critical importance of water security for Egypt during discussions with Rwandan President Paul Kagame on Tuesday, highlighting the country's stance on water rights amidst ongoing scarcity issues. He underscored Egypt's firm position against any compromise on its water entitlements and advocated for collaboration among Nile Basin nations to ensure collective benefits.
According to Kuwait News Agency, these statements were made by Al-Sisi via Presidential Spokesperson Ambassador Mohammad Al-Shenawy during their dialogue, which addressed regional and international concerns. The conversation also focused on developments in the Great Lakes region and the Horn of Africa, with both leaders emphasizing the importance of peace and stability throughout the African continent.
The discussions included strategies to enhance integration among Nile Basin states, with a mutual agreement to continue collaborative efforts to confront shared challenges and advance sustainable development. Both leaders reiterated the necessity of adhering to international law in managing transboundary waterways, such as the Nile River.
President Al-Sisi reaffirmed Egypt's dedication to regional security and development and expressed his determination to overcome barriers to prosperity and stability in Africa. On the topic of Palestine, the leaders examined the outcomes of the recent Two-State Solution Conference held in New York, acknowledging the growing international support for Palestinian statehood.
Al-Sisi informed Kagame about Egypt's initiatives to halt the conflict in Gaza and ensure the provision of humanitarian aid to the region. He strongly opposed any efforts to displace Palestinians and reiterated support for establishing a Palestinian state based on the June 4, 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
The Egyptian President expressed appreciation for the relationship between Egypt and Rwanda, expressing a willingness to expand cooperation, particularly in the economic, medical, and investment sectors. President Kagame praised Egypt's involvement in post-conflict development and showed interest in enhancing collaborative efforts with Cairo.