Egypt eager to set up joint projects with Nile Basin countries

Egypt is eager to support the Nile Basin countries and participate in joint projects covering agriculture, especially agricultural production, animal husbandry and fish resources.

Egypt's motivation is to raise the standard of living of the peoples of the Nile Basin, Deputy PM and Minister of Agriculture and Land Reclamation Youssef Wali stressed yesterday.

Wali dismissed rumors about Ethiopia building huge dams on the Nile, stressing that there are no such projects that would reduce the quantity of Nile water flowing into Egypt and Sudan.

The deputy PM was speaking at the inauguration of the meeting of the ministers of water resources of Nile Basin countries which started yesterday in Cairo and will last for three days.

Wali also stressed that there are various areas for cooperation between Egypt and the Nile Basin countries, particularly Ethiopia and Sudan, especially when it comes to the transfer of modern technology and the provision of experts and technicians.

Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Mahmoud Abou Zeid explained that the meeting of the ministers of water resources will result in further developing projects to use the waters of the Nile, especially when it comes to equitably distributing this vital commodity.

He praised the World Bank, UN and international donors for offering to sponsor feasibility studies for Nile Basin joint projects.