Monday, 25 May 2026
Egypt pledges support for development and investment in Nile Basin countries
Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Aaty and Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam have reiterated Cairo’s determination to promote sustainable development and regional cooperation among its fellow Nile Basin nations.
Following a high-level meeting on Wednesday, both ministers emphasized Egypt’s support for national private sector investment in development projects across Nile Basin countries, including the construction of dams in southern Nile nations, provided such initiatives align with international legal standards.
The ministers noted that several Egyptian companies are already engaged in major projects in the region, and highlighted a new Egyptian financing mechanism for development initiatives in Basin countries.
The meeting took place as part of ongoing consultations with Egyptian ambassadors heading to overseas assignments and in the context of continued collaboration between Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation.
Minister Abdel Aaty expressed gratitude for the close partnership between the two ministries, particularly on issues related to water security—a matter of crucial importance to Egypt’s national security. He also highlighted the importance of international cooperation to address water scarcity, build capacities, and transfer new technology to the region.
For his part, Minister Sewilam outlined Egypt’s efforts to modernize water management, respond to climate change challenges, and adopt global best practices in irrigation and conservation. He emphasized the ministry’s focus on digital transformation, next-generation smart irrigation systems, seawater desalination, and advanced wastewater treatment as key to tackling water shortages.
Egypt, which relies almost entirely on the Nile for its freshwater, has consistently called for dialogue, legal compliance, and mutually beneficial development in the region, balancing national needs with those of its neighbors. The renewed commitment comes amid shared challenges such as climate change and a growing demand for water resources in the Nile Basin.