In a recent meeting held at the Suez Canal Authority’s headquarters in Ismailia, Admiral Ossama Rabiee, Chairman of the Authority, and Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), discussed the necessary steps for the gradual resumption of major shipping lines through the Suez Canal.
Admiral Rabiee emphasized that the Suez Canal is prepared to operate at full capacity as these shipping lines begin to return. With the security situation in the Red Sea region stabilizing following the implementation of a truce agreement, he assured that the canal is operationally ready to accommodate major shipping services.
Dominguez welcomed the improvement in stability within the Red Sea region, noting its positive impact on navigation through the Suez Canal. He expressed optimism about the gradual return of maritime traffic, which is crucial for restoring stability to global supply chains that have faced significant disruptions.
During the meeting, Admiral Rabiee highlighted new services that the Suez Canal Authority has developed, including ship repair and maintenance, marine ambulance services, bunkering, solid waste collection, and crew change services. These additions are part of the Authority’s efforts to enhance operational capabilities.
The Suez Canal has also made strides to increase its capacity, accommodating an additional six to eight vessels. Ongoing development projects in the southern sector of the canal aim to bolster navigational safety and improve responses to emergencies.
Rabiee noted the Authority’s commitment to transforming the Suez Canal into a “Green Canal” by building environmentally friendly marine units, converting existing vessels to biofuel, and powering pilot stations with clean energy. These initiatives align with broader goals of safe and sustainable maritime practices.
Dominguez reiterated the importance of the Suez Canal as a vital global trade corridor and urged major shipping lines to reassess their navigation schedules to facilitate their return as security improves. He expressed confidence that navigation through the canal would gradually return to normal levels, as the alternative route around the Cape of Good Hope lacks sustainable navigational fundamentals.
Finally, Dominguez praised the rapid advancements occurring in the Suez Canal, particularly in waterway development and modernized navigational services. He indicated that the IMO would collaborate with the Suez Canal on advanced training programs focused on combating pollution, aligning with the organization’s vision of delivering safe and environmentally friendly maritime services.
