- The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) discussed resuming normal navigation as Red Sea security stabilizes.
- Adm. Rabiee announced progress in doubling the canal’s capacity, eco-friendly initiatives, and modernizing marine services.
- IMO Secretary-General emphasized the Suez Canal’s global importance, urging shipping lines to prioritize its use for efficiency and reduced emissions.
On Tuesday, Adm. Ossama Rabiee, Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority, met with Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, IMO Secretary-General, to discuss strategies for resuming major shipping lines through the Suez Canal. The meeting, held at the Authority’s headquarters in Ismailia, coincided with the opening of the IMO regional representative office in Egypt and addressed cooperation amid a stabilizing security situation in the Red Sea region, reports SCA.
Security and Navigation Updates
Discussions centered on re-establishing normal transit as the truce agreement fosters security stabilization.
CMA CGM vessels under the EPIC navigation service will begin transiting on January 23.
SCA’s Infrastructure and Capacity Enhancements
Capacity Expansion:
Doubling project in the Small Bitter Lakes region, extending 10 kilometers, to commence operations in Q1 2025.
Southern sector development increases vessel accommodation by 6-8 additional vessels.
Navigation Safety:
Updated navigational equipment, buoys, and charts.
Pilot training at the SCA Maritime Training and Simulation Academy.
Modernization and Green Initiatives
Initiatives include the conversion of marine units to biofuel and clean energy-powered pilotage stations—enhanced marine waste disposal services.
Introduction of aluminum pilot boats, multipurpose tugboats, and salvage tugboats, with deliveries planned through 2026.
IMO’s Perspective and Recommendations
IMO Secretary-General Dominguez praised efforts to restore navigation through the Suez Canal, ensuring stability and efficiency in international trade.
IMO stressed the importance of the canal for reducing fuel consumption, and emissions, and promoting sustainable maritime operations.
Dominguez emphasized the inadequacy of the Cape of Good Hope as an alternative, lacking infrastructure and security.
Collaborative Efforts
The SCA and IMO joint programs will focus on pollution mitigation and advanced maritime training.
Dominguez toured key facilities, including the Navigation Control Center, Maritime Training Academy, and Suez Canal Museum.
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Source: SCA
