Egypt rejects new Red Sea access arrangements affecting coastal sovereignty

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has reaffirmed Egypt's rejection of any new arrangements regarding access to the Red Sea that would undermine the sovereignty or territorial integrity of coastal states. Speaking during a press conference with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung in Seoul, el-Sisi emphasized that the responsibility for governing and securing the Red Sea lies exclusively with the countries bordering it, rejecting external dominance or presence outside legitimate regional cooperation frameworks.

The statements come amid rising tensions in the Horn of Africa, driven by Ethiopia's pursuit of sea access, which it describes as a ‘top national priority.’ Ethiopia has remained landlocked since Eritrea's independence in 1993. Eritrean officials have warned that Ethiopia might seek to justify military action to secure maritime access, raising concerns about regional stability and international navigation.

In addition to maritime security, President el-Sisi addressed the importance of the Nile River and reiterated Egypt's opposition to unilateral actions affecting its water rights. He stressed the necessity of adhering to international law and the principle of not causing harm to neighboring states while supporting development within the Nile Basin.