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Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- US President Donald Trump pledged to prioritize the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) dispute during a meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi.
- Trump stated he would work towards a fair settlement, noting Ethiopia's actions had treated Egypt unfairly.
- This US engagement comes amid renewed diplomatic efforts following a halt in negotiations between Egypt and Ethiopia over the dam.
U.S. President Donald Trump has pledged to make the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) dispute a top priority, aiming to broker a fair settlement between Egypt and Ethiopia. The commitment came during a meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France.
I think Ethiopia has treated you unfairly.
Trump's remarks have sparked predictions of a potential breakthrough in the long-stalled dispute. Analysts believe the dam issue could regain international focus, especially with a calmer regional environment following the easing of tensions surrounding the Iran war. Egypt had previously announced a halt to negotiations with Ethiopia, citing a lack of political will on the Ethiopian side.
A dam was built in Ethiopia that is causing major problems for Egypt, and I am fully aware of that. We will see whether we can reach a settlement on it.
During his discussion with Trump, President El Sisi emphasized the critical importance of the Nile River issue for Egypt's national security. He expressed gratitude for the U.S. president's attention to the matter. Trump acknowledged Egypt's concerns, stating, "I think Ethiopia has treated you unfairly." He recognized the significant problems the dam's construction has caused for Egypt and affirmed his intention to seek a resolution.
We will see whether we can reach a settlement on it.
This U.S. involvement marks a renewed diplomatic push after nearly two years of suspended talks. Recent weeks have seen increased U.S. engagement, including a phone call between Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and Massad Boulos, a senior U.S. advisor, who discussed the dam dispute and Egypt's water security. Boulos also held "productive and comprehensive meetings" with an Ethiopian delegation, engaging in constructive discussions about the Nile River and the GERD.
He reiterated the critical importance of the Nile River issue, describing it as a matter of Egyptian national security, and expressed appreciation for the US president's interest in the matter.
Originally published by Asharq Al-Awsat. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.