China recognises Egypt’s Nile water concerns, Cairo backs one-China policy

China recognised the vital importance of the Nile River to Egypt and its right to safeguard its water and food security and development interests, while Cairo reaffirmed its support for Beijing’s one-China policy, according to a joint statement issued on Wednesday.

The two sides called on all Nile Basin countries to abide by international law, including the principle of avoiding harm to other states, the statement said.

The statement was issued during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Egypt, as the two countries mark 70 years of diplomatic relations.

Egypt has long raised concerns over the impact of upstream Nile projects on its water supplies, particularly Ethiopia’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.

Egypt reaffirmed its rejection of interference in China’s internal affairs and its commitment to the one-China principle, recognising Taiwan as an integral part of China, the statement said.

Cairo also expressed support for China’s position on issues related to its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and reunification.
The two countries agreed to continue supporting each other on matters concerning their core interests and major concerns.