This forum brings experts in Nile and other transboundary river issues of the world to discuss experiences in diffusing tensions, sharing the common good, build trust and develop collaboration and cooperation.

SPEAKER
Dr. Wossenu Abtew | Principal Engineer, Water and Environment Consulting

TITLE
Downstream Upstream Relationship and the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) Filling and Operation Agreement Flexibility

ABSTRACT
There are two possible relationship models between downstream and upstream countries in transboundary basins. These relationships are either cooperation or hostility based. In the negotiations of transboundary agreements, the type of relationship determines the outcome of negotiations. In a cooperation mode of relationship, both upstream and downstream interests are accommodated, and negotiations have good chance of resulting in fair agreements for all in reasonable time. In a hostility mode of relationship, negotiations are likely to be dragged or end in unfair agreements that will likely be violated in time. The GERD negotiations between Ethiopia, Sudan and Egypt have to be evaluated based on the relationship model. Reservoir operation for optimum power generation require operation plan that is flexible enough to accommodate climatic variation, maintenance, and emergencies. In this presentation, characteristics of GERD filling and operation plan negotiations between Ethiopia, Sudan and Egypt will be discussed with details of the November 2019 to February 2020 Washington DC draft agreement presented by Egypt.