'Reinforcing Collaboration, Integration Among Arab Ports Critical Than Ever'

Doha: The 64th board meeting and the 32nd general assembly of the Arab Sea ports Federation (ASPF) kicked off yesterday in Doha alongside the Seatrade Maritime Qatar conference and Exhibition.

The meeting brought together representatives from 14 member states of the federation in addition to officials from several Arab and national institutions working in the maritime industry.

The board meeting was presided over by Capt. Abdullah Mohamed Al Khanji, CEO of Mwani Qatar, welcomed participants across the region and lauded the federation's role in strengthening knowledge exchange among Arab ports.

In a statement to the Press, he said,“Our gathering today comes at a time when reinforcing collaboration and integration among Arab ports is more critical than ever, particularly in light of the geopolitical challenges and the complex global landscape.”

“This calls for enhanced coordination and collective efforts, further underscoring the importance of this meeting in addressing recent developments and shaping the future of Arab seaports,” Al Khanji stressed.

The meeting was inaugurated by Essam EL Din Badawy, Secretary-General of the Arab Sea Ports Federation, demonstrating his gratitude to Qatar for organising the federation's important meeting.

During the meeting, the secretary-general highlighted the significance of the meeting in furthering the federation's goals, which aim to boost cooperation among member states and promote collaborative projects in the ports and maritime transport sector.

He pointed out that this cooperation is crucial for improving intra-Arab trade and attaining economic integration.

Badawy further underscored the importance of the meeting's agenda given the complex challenges facing the region.

He urged for collective action to implement the proposed recommendations, with the goal of improving integration among Arab ports, reinforcing cooperation, and boosting the overall performance of all Arab maritime facilities.

Capt. Abdullah Mohamed Al Khanji stated,“Recent years have demonstrated that cooperation and integration among Arab ports are no longer optional but a strategic necessity for achieving sustainable development and enhancing global competitiveness.”

He further added:“At Mwani Qatar, we believe that collective efforts are the best way to adapt to global shifts in the maritime industry and leverage technological and digital advancements."

MENAFN06022025000063011010ID1109174918