The Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority (SCA), Osama Rabie, welcomed a high-level Libyan delegation on Monday, led by Abdelhamid Moussa Awad, Chairman of the Board of Emaar Libya Holding Company. The delegation also included Idris Al-Habbouni, Chairman of the Free Zone Authority in Tobruk, and executive leaders from the ports of Benghazi and Sirte. The meeting, held at the SCA headquarters in Ismailia, focused on exploring avenues for maritime and logistical cooperation.
Discussions covered a wide range of topics, including advanced maritime training, the development of ports and piers, modern fishing services, and logistical enhancements. Rabie emphasized the strategic importance of fostering strong bilateral relations and sharing expertise between Egypt and Libya in areas of mutual interest.
Rabie also highlighted the SCA’s cutting-edge resources and ambitious vision to modernize maritime and logistical services with the latest global technologies. The talks included potential collaboration opportunities, such as deploying advanced high-seas fishing vessels built by the SCA, like the state-of-the-art “Rizk 1” vessel, to operate in Libyan waters as part of a joint effort to enhance the fishing industry. The SCA is currently constructing 12 similar vessels at the Egypt Tugboat Factory in Safaga.
Another key focus of the discussions was the development of Libyan ports and piers. Rabie noted the ongoing cooperation through the SCA-affiliated Canal Ports and Major Projects Company, which is already involved in dredging operations at the Port of Sirte. He also outlined the SCA’s plans to expand fish farming along the canal to boost annual production rates, aiming for self-sufficiency and meeting global export standards.
Abdelhamid Moussa Awad expressed Libya’s strong commitment to deepening collaboration with Egypt, particularly in the economic and maritime sectors. He highlighted the eagerness to leverage SCA’s expertise in maritime training and simulation through the Suez Canal Academy for Maritime Training. Awad praised the SCA as a reliable partner in marine and logistical activities.
The delegation toured several marine units built by SCA companies, gaining insight into yacht manufacturing and the potential for boosting yacht tourism at Suez Canal marinas.
