Cairo: Minister of Industry and Transport Kamel El-Wazir recently engaged in discussions with Sudanese Minister of Urban Development, Roads and Bridges Salah Hamed Ismail to explore potential collaboration across multiple transport sectors. The meeting aimed at strengthening ties and enhancing infrastructure between the two nations.
According to State Information Service Egypt, El-Wazir expressed Egypt’s dedication to supporting Sudan’s development and infrastructure initiatives. He highlighted the active participation of Egyptian companies in significant Sudanese projects, underscoring the commitment as outlined in a Cabinet statement released on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.
A key topic of discussion was the ongoing cooperation in river transport. A joint protocol exists between Egypt’s River Transport Authority, the Nile Valley Navigation Authority, and Sudan’s River Navigation Authority. This agreement includes a significant EGP 300 million redevelopment project for the Wadi Halfa river port, which has currently achieved 69 percent completion. Additionally, Egypt is working on upgrading navigational aids along a 350-kilometre stretch from Aswan to Wadi Halfa.
The talks also encompassed the Victoria-Mediterranean navigational corridor project, where Sudan plays an active role on the steering committee. Sudan has shown interest in awarding road infrastructure projects to Egyptian firms such as Arab Contractors, General Authority for Roads and Bridges, Egyptian Company for Self-Maintenance for Roads and Airport, and Hassan Allam Construction.
The dialogue also addressed recent changes in Sudanese crossing fees and their potential impact on trade between the nations. Egypt proposed the formation of a joint committee to address operational and procedural issues at border crossings to ensure smooth trade relations.
El-Wazir reiterated the importance of joint coordination in transport, emphasizing that it is crucial for economic integration and sustainable development. He reaffirmed Egypt’s unwavering support for Sudan and its developmental aspirations, echoing sentiments from the Cabinet statement.