Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi convened a high-level meeting on Monday to review the latest developments in the construction, modernization, and management of Egypt’s port infrastructure, alongside updates on national transport and industrial projects.
The meeting included Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly; Vice Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Industry and Transport, General Kamel El-Wazir; Presidential Advisor for Financial Affairs, General Ahmed El-Shazly; Director General of the Armed Forces’ National Service Projects Organization, General Magdy Anwar; and Head of the Financial Affairs Authority of the Armed Forces, General Khaled Ahmed Abdullah.
According to Presidential Spokesperson Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, the president was briefed on the comprehensive development plans for several major ports. These include the general master plans for the Garjoub Port and its associated economic zone, Abu Qir Port, and a liquid bulk station for storage and blending of petroleum products at East Port Said. Updates were also provided on the management, operation, and maintenance of the Galala Marina and the Berenice Port’s superstructure.
These projects are expected to significantly contribute to job creation and bolster Egypt’s logistics capabilities. President El-Sisi directed the continued development of Egypt’s port network to ensure alignment with the country’s recently expanded infrastructure. The goal is to maximize economic returns and reinforce Egypt’s role as a key regional trade and logistics hub.
The meeting also addressed the implementation status of various transport projects, particularly in the railway sector. Updates were shared on the construction of the East and West Nile monorail lines, including associated passenger stations and the integration of the East Cairo monorail with the planned Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. The president was informed that the East Nile monorail line is scheduled to open in November 2025, with road improvements along the route already underway.
Attention then turned to Egypt’s high-speed rail program, with the first line linking Ain Sokhna, Alexandria, Alamein, and Marsa Matrouh, set for completion by June 2026. Additionally, the line connecting Salam City, 10th of Ramadan, and the New Administrative Capital is on track for completion by March 2026. President El-Sisi emphasized the importance of adhering to the outlined timelines, underscoring the strategic importance of these rail projects to Egypt’s broader urban, industrial, and tourism development plans.
The session also included a review of Egypt’s industrial expansion strategy. Officials discussed opportunities for increasing the number of industrial zones and supporting domestic manufacturing. The government is prioritizing key industries such as steel and cement, with updates provided on the progress of Suez Steel and Arish Cement companies.
Minister Kamel El-Wazir highlighted ongoing efforts to attract strategic investments and form international industrial partnerships. These initiatives aim to boost local production, reduce dependency on imports, and increase exports, while creating sustainable employment opportunities.
President El-Sisi stressed the need to adhere to all project timelines, calling for a comprehensive review of road maintenance and upgrades across the national network. He also instructed that progress be accelerated on integrated logistics corridors that will connect key production areas to the new seaports under construction.
Finally, the president directed efforts toward attracting leading global shipping lines and logistics operators, positioning Egypt to enhance its industrial development goals and drive broader economic growth.
