Nile River is matter of national security, Egypt retains right to defend water security: Sisi

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi reiterated during high-level talks in Cairo that the Nile River holds paramount significance for Egypt's national security. Speaking to Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani, Sisi emphasized Cairo's inherent right to protect its water, food, and developmental security.

He firmly rejected any unilateral actions within the Nile basin, advocating for strict adherence to international law, which prohibits any harm to downstream nations. The discussion extended beyond the Nile issue, as both leaders agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation to promote stability in the Horn of Africa region. They stressed the importance of respecting the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of all states in the area.

Turning the conversation to maritime security, Sisi stressed that maintaining freedom of navigation through international waterways, particularly the Red Sea, is crucial for Egypt's national defense. He affirmed that safeguarding the Red Sea is solely the responsibility of its coastal states and warned against any actions that could jeopardize its stability or lead to militarization and internationalization of the vital waterway.