Riyadh: The ninth session of the Saudi-Egyptian Technical Committee for Maritime Transport and Ports concluded with significant advancements in bilateral cooperation aimed at enhancing maritime operations and safety. The meeting brought together representatives from the Saudi Transport General Authority and a high-level Egyptian delegation to address pressing challenges and strengthen ties in the field of maritime transport.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the discussions centered on overcoming navigation challenges in the Red Sea and improving Port State Control procedures for ships, with the goal of enhancing maritime safety and compliance with international standards. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) regarding passenger transportation in the Gulf of Aqaba was also under review during the meeting.
Both nations agreed to form a joint working group tasked with assessing navigation challenges in the Red Sea and proposing viable solutions. Additionally, a separate team will be established to oversee the implementation of agreements and memoranda signed between the two countries, ensuring that these initiatives are effectively executed.
In a notable development, the Egyptian delegation announced its decision to join the Riyadh MoU on Port State Control, a move aimed at unifying regional efforts, supporting the sustainability of maritime transport, and boosting its competitiveness. The meeting was attended by representatives from various concerned parties in both Saudi Arabia and Egypt, underscoring the collaborative spirit of the discussions.