Monday, 25 May 2026
Suez Canal Authority meets UN Disaster Risk Chief on maritime safety cooperation
Osama Rabie, Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority (SCA), received Kamal Kishore, the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction, to explore avenues for joint cooperation and provide an in-depth overview of the canal's maritime safety measures.
The meeting, held at the Guidance Building in Ismailia Governorate, was attended by SCA Vice Chairman Admiral Ashraf Atwa and Dr. Ridan Abdul Aziz Al-Saqqaf, Deputy Director of the UNDRR Regional Office for Arab States.
Rabie expressed appreciation for the UN's vital role in promoting peace, prosperity, and development. He noted a relative improvement in canal traffic recently, crediting the Sharm El-Sheikh Peace Summit as a pivotal step toward restoring stability in the Red Sea region. This has positively influenced the gradual return of major shipping lines to the area.
During the discussions, Rabie outlined the SCA's crisis and disaster management protocols, including handling adverse weather conditions. He highlighted ongoing efforts to modernize the maritime fleet with cutting-edge vessels to meet operational demands, enhance navigational and logistical services, and boost safety for transiting ships.
Rabie emphasized the SCA's commitment to elevating navigational safety through infrastructure projects, notably the southern sector development, which increased safety factors by 28%. Parallel investments in human capital include training programs at the authority's maritime academies.
Kishore praised the Suez Canal as an exceptional engineering feat and a sustainable pathway for global trade, serving as a vital artery for Egypt's national economy and the world. He expressed hope for sustained peace and stability in the Red Sea to swiftly normalize navigation through Bab el-Mandeb and the canal.
The UN representative commended the SCA's proactive measures, such as issuing forecasts and warnings for dust storms, high waves, heavy rains, fog, and other conditions. He also appreciated investments in monitoring and securing the waterway, as well as expanded value-added navigational services.
The visit included a maritime tour of the canal to witness the on-ground achievements firsthand.
This engagement underscores the SCA's focus on international partnerships to maintain the canal's role as a secure global trade lifeline amid regional challenges.