By Abal Tadele, reporter
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (Somalistandard) – Ethiopia has reaffirmed its commitment to hold discussions with Egypt and Sudan over the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Nile River.
On Saturday, Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Mr Demeke Mekonen, stated that the project had reached its “final stage” and that the Ethiopian people had worked together to achieve this milestone.
The GERD has been a contentious issue for years, with both Egypt and Sudan expressing concerns that the dam would significantly impact their water supply.
Egypt, in particular, has raised the issue with the United Nations Security Council, calling for intervention to prevent Ethiopia from filling the dam without reaching an agreement with downstream countries.
Despite these concerns, Ethiopia has continued to build the dam, which is set to be Africa’s largest hydroelectric power plant. The country has argued that the project is crucial to its development and will provide a significant boost to its economy.
In his remarks, Mr Mekonen acknowledged the importance of the GERD for Ethiopia, but also emphasized the need for continued dialogue with Egypt and Sudan.
He stated that Ethiopia was committed to finding a mutually beneficial solution through talks and that the construction of the dam would not harm the downstream countries.
The consultative forum also reviewed the progress of other projects, including the development of infrastructure and social services in the country.
The Ethiopian government has been working to implement various initiatives aimed at boosting the country’s economy and improving the living standards of its citizens.
As Ethiopia prepares to begin filling the GERD reservoir later this year, the issue remains a source of tension between the three countries.
The resumption of talks could provide a platform for resolving the dispute and ensuring that the interests of all parties are taken into account.
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