Donald Trump plans “fair” talks to secure a deal on electricity and water. The former President has offered to mediate the dispute between Egypt and Ethiopia, aiming to resolve the conflict over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam through transparent negotiations.
Trump’s proposal centers on a mutual exchange. He supports Ethiopia’s generation of “substantial” electricity, recognizing the dam’s value. However, he insists on “predictable water releases” for Egypt, ensuring the downstream nation is protected from drought.
The conflict has persisted for over a decade. The dam is now a reality, but the lack of a legal framework for its operation remains a major issue. Egypt and Sudan have consistently demanded a binding treaty, which Ethiopia has rejected.
Trump has often spoken about the dispute, sometimes claiming to have “ended” it. His recent comments describing the dam as a “big problem” reflect his continued interest. His offer to mediate is an attempt to turn his rhetoric into a signed agreement.
By offering to facilitate the talks, Trump is hoping to bridge the gap between the nations. His focus on fairness is an attempt to build trust. The success of this effort will depend on whether the parties are willing to make concessions.