Sudan won't accept Ethiopian fait accompli, has means to respond: gov't spox

CAIRO – 23 January 2021: Sudan does not accept a fait accompli in the case of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and has the means to respond with in such case, spokesperson of the Sudanese government Faisal Mohamed Saleh told Alsudani News website.

Regarding an African mediation, Saleh said mediation in its traditional fashion is no longer feasible, hence the methodology should be changed, and the role of experts expanded or expanding mediation to allow other parties.

“Negotiations is the only way; we do not want escalation. Our position is different from Egypt and Ethiopia. If any damage occurs, Sudan would be the part affected, so there must be an agreement that protects Sudan,” he said.

“There are no official negotiations at this time. We do not want escalation,” he added.

On Jan. 16, sokesman for the Sovereignty Council of Sudan Mohamed Suleiman has said that Sudan will not allow Ethiopia to impose its policy regarding the renaissance dam.

Suleiman's remarks came at a press conference on Jan. 15, he added that Ethiopia is implementing its policy of filling the dam without any consultation and before reaching an agreement in this regard. He added that Sudan will not accept this Ethiopian stance.