By Mohamed Attia
The Arab Civil Aviation Organization (ACAO) remains a strategic partner in developing the region’s aviation sector, Civil Aviation Minister Sameh El Hefny has said. Egypt, currently chairing the organization’s General Assembly, will continue to back its efforts while promoting cooperation and expertise-sharing among member states.
Mr El Hefny made the remarks during a meeting at the ministry headquarters on Sunday with the newly appointed ACAO Director General, Khalid El-Sharkawy. The two officials discussed ways to strengthen cooperation, upgrade the Arab air transport system, and advance regional integration.
During the talks, the minister praised the confidence shown by Arab states in electing Egypt to chair the General Assembly. This choice, he noted, reflects the country’s pivotal role in supporting joint Arab action. Mr El Hefny also congratulated Mr El-Sharkawy on assuming his new post, wishing him success in leading the organization forward.
The meeting reviewed the organization’s upcoming priorities and mechanisms to implement the General Assembly’s decisions. The officials tackled ways to develop capacity-building programmes and foster coordination among member states. These initiatives aim to bolster the aviation system, keep pace with regional and international developments, and contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
For his part, Mr El-Sharkawy thanked the minister for the warm reception. He commended Egypt’s leading role, advanced expertise, and capabilities, which he said contribute directly to backing the organization’s strategic objectives.
As part of his visit to Cairo, Mr El-Sharkawy also toured the headquarters of the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA), where he was received by its chairman, Sameh Mohamed Fawzy.
The two sides underlined the vital importance of exchanging expertise and developing technical capabilities between the ACAO and the ECAA. They emphasized that advancing the Arab civil aviation system, alongside improving safety, security, and air transport efficiency, serves the mutual interests of all Arab states. Behind every flight path and technical upgrade are the people dedicated to bridging borders, reflecting the human face of sacrifice and collaboration that binds the region together.
