By Mohamed Attia
Minister of Civil Aviation Sameh El-Hefny lauded the significant contributions of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Office in Egypt in fostering safe and orderly travel.
The commendation followed a productive meeting with Mr Carlos Oliver, Head of the IOM Office in Egypt, and Mr Michal Nobis, IOM Migration and Border Governance programmeme Officer, to discuss avenues for bolstering joint co-operation.
The discussions primarily focused on the development of the Advance Passenger Information (API) system and the exchange of vital technical and training expertise.
Minister el-Hefny conveyed his profound appreciation for the enduring partnership between the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the IOM Office in Egypt.
He specifically highlighted the IOM’s impactful initiatives in promoting principles of safe travel and organised migration, noting the heightened importance of this collaboration amidst current regional and international challenges impacting passenger movement.
The Minister underscored the critical need to intensify co-operation on both the Advance Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) systems.
He emphasised that these systems are fundamental in strengthening statistical data, bolstering air transport security and safety, and supporting the state’s comprehensive efforts to combat irregular migration. Furthermore, he recognised their instrumental role in enhancing the overall efficiency and seamless flow of passenger movement.
Minister el-Hefny also commended the IOM’s proactive role in building the capacities of its member states. He articulated the Ministry’s strong desire to expand co-operation in training and the exchange of technical expertise, as well as to leverage the IOM’s extensive international programmes and specialised knowledge, particularly concerning data management and smart systems.
