Egypt Reaffirms Support for Stability in South Sudan and Nile Cooperation

Egypt's Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty recently met with Monday Semaya Kumba, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of South Sudan, to discuss the strengthening of bilateral relations and cooperation between the two nations. This meeting, which took place in Cairo, followed Kumba's visit to Egypt in December 2025 and a prior discussion at the African Summit in Addis Ababa. Both ministers emphasized the importance of building on these previous engagements to enhance their partnership.

FM affirms Egypt’s full support for efforts to achieve security, stability in South SudanEgypt backs stability in South Sudan and urges Nile co-operation

A significant topic during the discussions was the management of the Nile River, which is crucial for both Egypt and South Sudan. Abdelatty highlighted the necessity of cooperation among Nile Basin countries, advocating for adherence to international law principles such as prior notification, consultation, and the rejection of unilateral actions that could harm shared water resources. He reaffirmed Egypt's commitment to the Nile Basin Initiative and the ongoing consultative process aimed at fostering inclusivity among member states. The Egyptian minister stressed the importance of dialogue and coordination with upstream countries, including South Sudan, to ensure the river's sustainability and maximize its resources for mutual benefit.

Egypt backs stability in South Sudan and urges Nile co-operationFM affirms Egypt’s full support for efforts to achieve security, stability in South Sudan

Badr Abdelatty stated, "Egypt's full support for efforts to achieve security and stability in South Sudan" reflects the deep-rooted and mutually beneficial relationship between the two countries. He reiterated Egypt's stance against unilateral measures that could negatively impact shared water resources, emphasizing the need for collaborative approaches to manage the Nile effectively.

Egypt backs stability in South Sudan and urges Nile co-operationFM affirms Egypt’s full support for efforts to achieve security, stability in South Sudan

While the discussions between Egypt and South Sudan were framed positively, there are ongoing concerns among some Nile Basin countries regarding Egypt's historical dominance over Nile waters. Critics argue that Egypt's insistence on prior notification and consultation may hinder the development efforts of upstream nations. This perspective highlights the complexities of regional diplomacy surrounding the Nile River, where interests often conflict.

Egypt backs stability in South Sudan and urges Nile co-operationFM affirms Egypt’s full support for efforts to achieve security, stability in South Sudan

The ongoing dialogue between Egypt and South Sudan is expected to continue, with both nations aiming to solidify their partnership and address the challenges posed by Nile water management. Future meetings and initiatives under the Nile Basin Initiative may further shape the dynamics of cooperation among the countries sharing this vital resource.

Egypt backs stability in South Sudan and urges Nile co-operation

In summary, Egypt's reaffirmation of support for South Sudan's stability and the call for enhanced cooperation among Nile Basin countries underscore the importance of diplomatic engagement in addressing regional challenges.

Egypt backs stability in South Sudan and urges Nile co-operation