Alexandria:Minister of Transport Kamel El-Wazir highlighted the importance of strengthening Arab coordination in the face of regional and international developments. He emphasized the need for the exchange of information and expertise to enhance the preparedness of ports and transport networks and to explore operational alternatives to address emerging challenges.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the minister underscored the necessity of initiatives to ensure maritime navigation safety and the freedom of safe passage in compliance with international law. These remarks were made during the 75th session of the Executive Bureau of the Council of Arab Transport Ministers, chaired by El-Wazir at the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport headquarters in Alexandria.

The minister detailed the Executive Bureau's agenda, which includes supporting the Palestinian economy, implementing a strategic plan for Jerusalem's sectoral development, and discussing Arab agreements on land transport of passengers and goods. The agenda further addresses the development of an electronic portal for land transport, road safety, railway advancements, digital transformation in transport, energy transition, and carbon emission reductions.

In terms of maritime transport, the agenda covers a draft agreement on maritime transport among Arab countries, development of river transport in Sudan, and a comprehensive Arab maritime cooperation agreement. It also focuses on strengthening maritime and logistical diplomacy to support transport corridors and supply chains, reinforcing the Arab geo-economic position.

El-Wazir noted that regional conflicts and geopolitical risks are disrupting transport and trade flows, affecting global supply chains, and prompting shipping lines to adopt alternative routes, leading to longer voyage times, increased costs, congestion, delays, and higher carbon emissions.

He called for collective solidarity at national and international levels to navigate the extraordinary circumstances of instability and uncertainty impacting human lives and economic and social activities, which are driving up costs globally.

The minister also emphasized the need for genuine integration among Arab countries to facilitate efficient movement of passengers and goods, strengthen crisis response capabilities, and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

El-Wazir extended congratulations to Nabil Fahmy on becoming the Secretary-General of the League of Arab States and thanked outgoing Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit. He expressed gratitude to Arab transport ministers and participants for their contributions to the session and thanked the technical committees and the Secretariat for their preparations amid challenging circumstances.