Addis Ababa University
President Office
Addis Ababa University is greatly disappointed by the recent statement made by President Donald Trump in connection with the Dam Ethiopia is building on the Blue Nile river, its natural water. We are very sorry that the statement disregards the long standing friendship between the peoples of Ethiopia and the United States of America. We do believe, given our good relationship, the people of the United States would not endorse the statement intended to hurt the people of Ethiopia. It is absolutely unfair that the United States, an advocate of democracy and freedom, treats a friend and a sovereign country, Ethiopia, in such a manner. Ethiopia, as a sovereign nation, like any sovereign country in the world, has every right, by all standards, to make use of its natural resources to the benefit of its people. Ethiopia is one of the most peace-loving countries who believe in mutual cooperation and coexistence. The United States which has always sacrificed the lives of its dear sons and daughters for the sake of saving lives and maintaining peace across the globe cannot work towards provoking confrontation between two African neighbors. This is just against its long-cherished principle of democracy, peace and freedom.
The horn of Africa is a volatile region often challenged by the infiltration and destructive actions of terrorists. It is a delicate region that can flare up into a global crisis unless carefully and wisely handled. Ethiopia, being a major country there, has never rested to ensure the peace and stability of the region sometimes with the cooperation of her neighbors. Addis Ababa University does not feel comfortable with the statement of President Trump as it might cause a serious global crisis and add to the pain of the world already plagued by the covid-19 pandemic. We would therefore like to advise that a reconsideration of the position of the United States, as stated by the president, would save the world from more trouble.
Addis Ababa University does hope that the discussion on the issue of the Dam going on between Ethiopia, Sudan and Egypt under the auspices of the African Union is progressing well and will produce the desired outcome for all parties. The University will do everything on its part to render the discussion among these neighbors successful. We believe that even though Ethiopia is the natural source and owner of the Blue Nile, our neighbors are also entitled to a reasonable share of the water and Ethiopia respects that.
We, therefore, call upon all friends of Addis Ababa University and Ethiopia, politicians, scientists, scholars and students across the United States and the world to stand for the truth, justice and peace and help to prevent the aggression directed against a peaceful, sovereign nation, Ethiopia.
President Office
Addis Ababa University
Source: Addis Ababa University’s President Office (AAU)