Despite maritime challenges caused by the Houthi attacks, Egypt continues to work on the expansion and improvement of the Suez Canal. Since December last year, tensions in the Red Sea region have had a significant impact on Suez Canal traffic, reducing sea traffic into the Mediterranean Sea by more than 60 percent.

The Suez Canal Administration (SCA) has announced that they have completed 75 percent of the 10km-long strategic navigation route expansion project near the Bagh Lake region in the south of Izmir.The project aims to double the current width of the 122km to 132km, further enhancing the canal’s navigation efficiency and passability.

General Osama Rabi, head of the SCA, reviewed the progress of the Suez Canal expansion project and noted: “In 2015, we opened a 72 km river section allowing vessels to pass in two directions in the middle section of the canal.”

Although the 50 km north of the Suez Canal and the 30 km south still maintain the one-way passage mode, the current expansion project is expected to further optimize the entire length of the 193 km navigation route, which will not only enhance the international competitiveness of the canal, but will also bring more benefits to the Egyptian economy.

Faced with current geopolitical challenges, Egypt’s efforts demonstrate its unwavering determination to secure the Suez Canal’s position as a global important waterway. This strategic channel is not only vital to Egypt but also has a huge impact on international trade and the global economy. Through these expansion and improvement projects, Egypt aims to maintain its key role in the global shipping industry while ensuring the Suez Canal’s safety and smooth operation.