Dr. Abdel-Aty met today, Tuesday, April 14, with Mr. Marco Rubio, US Secretary of State, during his visit to Washington, to discuss ways to strengthen the strategic partnership between Egypt and the United States, and to consult on the latest developments in the Middle East and several other regional issues, most notably the military escalation in the region, the Palestinian issue, Sudan, Lebanon, the Horn of Africa, and Egyptian water security.

Regarding the water security issue, Minister Abdel-Aty reiterated that the Nile River is an existential issue and a lifeline for the Egyptian people in light of severe water scarcity. He emphasized Egypt's commitment to serious cooperation in accordance with the principles of international law, and rejected any unilateral actions on transboundary rivers.