S. Sinai: More promotion of eco-tourism, higher education

Egypt’s Minister of Environment Yasmin Fouad on Monday met with a delegation from the UAE-based MLG to discuss e-tourism in green zones and natural reserves in South Sinai.

Governor of South Sinai Khaled Fouda attended the meeting.

The minister said MLG should submit a study of the proposal to establish facilities using solar power and recycled materials for construction.

Activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, walking, scooter riding, mountain biking and camel- and horse riding, the minister said, adding that permits will be issued for those activities, Fouad said.

The minister suggested a visit to Sharm El-Sheikh to identify opportunities for investment, noting that with regard to the green zone, it is necessary to define procedures that make it a sustainable environmentally friendly area.

The minister also referred to Eco-Egypt campaign, noting that the ministry is working with the Ministry of Tourism to eliminate any obstacles in this regard.

Work has also been done to integrate the local community into the activities of the reserves as they are the residents and guardians of the reserve, bearing in mind that 75 per cent of activities are carried out by residents.

For his part, South Sinai Governor Khaled Fouda said Sharm el-Sheikh is a unique city that has been developed into a green city with ecotourism facilities.

Regarding higher education, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Ayman Ashour met Governor of South Sinai and the delegation from MLG.

The minister spoke of many national projects for higher education implemented in Sinai.

The minister and MLG looked into co-operation between Egyptian universities and their Emirati counterparts in scientific projects since Egyptian universities wish to take part in COP 28 in the United Arab Emirates.

For its part, MLG team said they were keen to co-operation with institutes of higher education and scientific research in Egypt, notably in entrepreneurship and innovation, and review plans for co-operation with King Salman International University.