Cairo: Minister of Transport Kamel el Wazir held talks with Senegalese Minister of Fisheries, Maritime Transport, Infrastructure and Ports Amy Mara Di¨ye on launching a commercial shipping route between Alexandria and Dakar to increase trade between Egypt and West Africa.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the proposed route aims to provide a more direct maritime connection between the two countries. This initiative is expected to facilitate Egyptian exports to West African markets and improve access for Senegalese products to markets in the Middle East and Arab countries.

The Alexandria-Dakar route could serve as a starting point for broader maritime cooperation and stronger trade and investment ties. The two ministers discussed cooperation in shipbuilding, fishing vessel production, and maritime training, highlighting the potential for significant economic collaboration.

The talks also addressed the possible use of Egyptian shipyards to build fishing boats and vessels for Senegal, along with training programs for Senegalese personnel through specialized Egyptian institutions. Minister Di¨ye expressed Senegal's interest in expanding cooperation with Egypt and benefiting from its experience in maritime transport and infrastructure.

At the end of the meeting, the two sides agreed to form a joint committee to finalize a maritime transport cooperation agreement between Egypt and Senegal ahead of its planned signing.