Admiral Rabiee highlighted positive indicators suggesting a return to stability in the region, presenting an opportunity for shipping companies to adjust navigation schedules. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the Red Sea crisis, which led many shipping lines to reroute via the Cape of Good Hope, despite higher costs and limited navigational services. He emphasized the SCA’s continuous efforts to support the maritime industry throughout the crisis by maintaining its services and introducing new offerings such as maritime salvage, water ambulance, pollution control, ship maintenance, and bunkering services.
Rabiee reassured the global maritime community that conditions are favorable for resuming normal navigation through the Red Sea and that the Suez Canal is fully prepared to operate at full capacity. He also expressed understanding of shipping companies' security concerns and their commitment to ensuring the safety of vessels and crew.
During the meeting, industry representatives provided insights and recommendations:
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Bahaa Badr, Chairman of Arabian Gulf Marine Trading Co. (EVERGREEN LINE agent), praised the SCA’s development initiatives.
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Rear Admiral Ehab Elbanan, Chairman of Clarksons Company, suggested temporary incentives to encourage transits.
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Hany El-Nady, Maersk Group Representative for MENA, confirmed Maersk’s readiness to resume transits once stability is ensured.
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Capt. Mohammed Badawi, Managing Director of Gulf Agency Company, supported the idea of regular meetings and temporary incentives.
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Tariq Zaghloul, CEO of CMA CGM Egypt and Sudan Cluster, emphasized the strategic importance of the Canal and expected continued stability in the Red Sea.
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Ehab Fathy, MSC Representative, discussed the role of Port Said Shipyard in maintaining MSC vessels.
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Mohamed Moselhy, Chairman of Alexandria Chamber of Shipping, commended the SCA’s efforts in maintaining open communication.
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Adel Ellameey, Chairman of Port Said Chamber of Shipping, called for collaboration with insurers to reclassify the region as safe for transit.
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Rear Admiral Abdel Qader Gaballah, Chairman of Suez Chamber of Shipping, stressed the importance of accurate information about the region’s security.
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Mamdouh Taha, CEO of COSCO Shipping Agency, noted that major shipping lines would inevitably return to the Canal as stability improves.
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Mahmoud El Kady, Business Development Manager at Kadmar Shipping, highlighted the rise in yacht tourism due to improved services.
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Amany Helmy, General Manager of Dominion Shipping Agencies, suggested increased incentives for yachts and cruise ships.
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Ahmed Al-Masry, Medlevant Shipping Agency Representative, called for enhanced services for vessel crews.
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Capt. Mohamed El Boraey, GLOBAL LOGISTICS Agency Representative, advocated for attracting a wider range of vessel types beyond large containerships.
The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for periodic discussions to address industry concerns and reinforce the Suez Canal’s role as a critical global trade route.