Sisi, IMO chief discuss ways to boost maritime co-operation 

Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El Sisi met on Tuesday with Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Arsenio Dominguez, in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Industry and Transport Kamel El-Wazir. 

The official spokesman for the Presidency Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy said that the meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both sides to continue cooperation in the IMO’s fields of work. This is particularly important in light of Egypt’s significant capabilities in shipping and maritime transport, including the Suez Canal, and its extensive coastlines on the Mediterranean and Red Seas.

 The spokesman added that the meeting also discussed ways to enhance collaboration on environmental issues, climate change, and renewable energy. 

The meeting also reviewed Egypt’s efforts to become a global hub for green hydrogen production, aligning with the IMO’s goals of promoting alternative fuels for ships.

 The talks explored ways the IMO could support the transfer of relevant international expertise, facilitate investments in the green hydrogen sector, and develop the necessary infrastructure in ports and key maritime corridors in developing nations.

For his part, the IMO Secretary-General praised Egypt’s recent advancements in maritime port services, which have significantly improved global navigation and bolstered global supply chains in an effective and sustainable manner. 

The spokesperson also noted that the discussions touched upon the situation in the Bab El-Mandeb Strait and efforts to restore security in the region, given its critical importance to international maritime trade routes. 

President Sisi emphasized the vital role the IMO can play in this regard, as it brings together relevant international and regional stakeholders as well as key players in maritime shipping. 

The President said Egypt looked forward to calming the situation in the region, in light of the successful ceasefire agreement reached in Gaza, as part of ongoing efforts to restore regional security.