"Anyone who thinks Egypt will turn a blind eye to an existential threat to its water security is mistaken... We will continue to monitor and take all measures guaranteed under international law to safeguard our people's existential resources," Sisi said at a joint press conference with Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni in Cairo. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi on Tuesday reiterated Egypt's complete rejection of unilateral actions in the Eastern Nile Basin, stressing that Cairo has always sought to make the River Nile a source of cooperation rather than conflict. "Anyone who thinks Egypt will turn a blind eye to an existential threat to its water security is mistaken... We will continue to monitor and take all measures guaranteed under international law to safeguard our people's existential resources," Sisi said at a joint press conference with Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni in Cairo. The president said he and Museveni exchanged views on the Nile, which he described as the "lifeline for our two countries." They agreed that the optimal approach among Nile Basin states should be based on enhancing cooperation for mutual benefit, preserving and developing this vital resource, and ensuring "consideration of everyone's interests" without causing harm, in line with international law. Sisi praised Museveni's remarks that without preserving the Nile Basin environment, "there will be nothing to share." He said the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam issue was discussed extensively, noting Egypt's longstanding position that it supports development in partner and sister states of the Nile Basin, provided it does not affect the volume or share of water reaching Egypt. He cited Museveni's observation that the Nile Basin receives around 1,600 billion cubic metres of rainfall annually, of which only about 85 billion cubic metres — roughly 4 per cent — reach the Blue and White Nile. Sisi stressed Egypt seeks only to preserve this small share, the country's sole water source, while supporting other states' use of available water for agriculture and power generation. "We are not saying 'us and them.' We all live, grow, and cooperate together for the prosperity and stability of our countries," he said, adding that Egypt has no alternative water source and will not give up any part of its supply. Sisi expressed hope that the Uganda-led seven-party committee would help reach an agreement benefiting all basin states. He also underlined the different realities between rain-rich states and Egypt, which relies entirely on the Nile, noting Egyptians' deep concern over water security. He warned that water could be used as part of broader pressure campaigns to achieve other goals, but reaffirmed Egypt's opposition to interfering in others' affairs or engaging in destructive actions. "We are for building, cooperation, and development. Our countries in Africa have had enough of years of conflict," he said, assuring Egyptians that the state would never allow harm to the water sustaining 105 million citizens and around 10 million guests living in Egypt. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: M. S. Salama
