The United Nations Security Council reviewed on June 29 the developments of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which Ethiopia is building along the Blue Nile, after a decade of deadlock in negotiations. During the meeting that was held via videoconference upon Egypt’s request, the council members called on Egypt, Ethiopia and Sudan to engage in negotiations to reach an understanding under the African Union (AU) brokerage.

Egypt had asked the Security Council on June 20 to intervene to resume talks over the GERD dispute. Shortly after, on June 25, Sudan addressed a letter to the council in line with the Egyptian stance. The two countries complained about Ethiopia’s unilateral decision-making, including its intention to start filling the dam reservoir before an agreement is reached.

Egypt is concerned about the possible negative impact of the dam on its annual share of Nile water, which it relies on to meet over 95% of its freshwater needs. Around 85% of Nile water comes from the Blue Nile, on which the GERD is being built at a cost of $4.6 billion. Ethiopia considers this project vital to develop its economy and save millions from poverty.

Sudan sees some GERD benefits in organizing the Blue Nile water and making use of the electricity generated from it. Still, it wants guarantees regarding the dam’s safe and convenient operation to ensure the safety of its own dams, including the largest Sudanese dam known as the Roseires Dam.