Regional Peace and Security

The two ​presidents engaged⁤ in discussions concerning the progress of‍ peace processes in Washington and Doha, and explored avenues for Egypt to ⁢contribute to ‌their implementation.President Sisi affirmed Egypt’s commitment ‍to utilizing its⁣ diplomatic influence ⁤to de-escalate the crisis in the DRC and promote stability, leveraging Egypt’s strong relationships with countries in the region. ⁣He pledged Egypt’s “all necessary efforts and good offices to bring viewpoints closer, resolve the crisis in Congo, and achieve stability.”

President Tshisekedi expressed gratitude for Egypt’s ongoing support and highlighted the positive trajectory of‌ bilateral relations across various sectors, emphasizing Egypt’s dedication to fostering progress in Africa, particularly within the Nile Basin countries.

Nile River Cooperation and the Nile Basin Initiative

A significant portion​ of the discussion‍ centered on developments related to the Nile River and the importance of collaborative ‌efforts among the⁣ countries sharing the Nile‌ Basin. Both leaders underscored their shared vision for the river’s lasting management and the necessity of adhering to the ⁢principle of consensus among basin states. This principle, thay agreed, is crucial for ensuring equitable benefits ​and preventing unilateral actions that could hinder development.

President Sisi‌ emphasized Egypt’s support for the Nile Basin Initiative (NBI), describing it as a “unifying platform” capable of addressing the interests of all Nile Basin countries. He cautioned against “intransigence‍ or unilateral actions of a political nature,”​ advocating for a collaborative approach to resource management. The NBI,launched in 1999 by the Nile Basin states,aims ‌to promote cooperation in the sustainable management and development of the shared Nile Basin water resources.

Egypt’s position reflects concerns over ⁤the Grand ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a⁤ hydroelectric dam under construction in Ethiopia. Egypt fears the dam‌ could considerably reduce its share of Nile water, impacting its water security.Negotiations regarding the filling and operation of the GERD have been ongoing for years, with the ‌involvement of the African Union and other ‍international actors.

Egypt’s Foreign Policy Principles

President Sisi reiterated Egypt’s commitment to a foreign policy grounded in principles,values,and respect for international law. He asserted that Egypt’s ‍actions are driven by a desire for stability and peace ⁣in its neighboring countries, and that it does not ‍engage in coercive tactics‌ or threats to achieve its interests. “my country’s foreign policy is based on principles, values, and respect for​ international law, ​and ‌that it does not conspire, threaten, or use force to achieve its interests, ‌but rather aims to achieve stability and peace in pleasant‍ countries,” Sisi⁢ stated.

Meeting Attendees

The meeting was attended by key Egyptian⁤ officials, including Foreign⁢ Minister Sameh Shoukry and Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sweilam.⁢ Representing the DRC were Minister ‌of Culture and Arts Patrick Muyaya ⁤and DRC Ambassador to Cairo, Jean-Pierre Mutamba.