Al-Sisi reviews Damietta Port upgrades, major transport projects

2026-03-17 - 18:51

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi met with Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and Minister of Transport Kamel Al-Wazir to review plans for developing Damietta Port and other major transport projects. According to the presidency, the meeting covered the comprehensive plan for upgrading Damietta Port, as well as progress on expanding and improving Cairo’s 116-kilometre ring road and upgrading the 6th of October Bridge to alleviate traffic congestion. Officials also discussed expanding environmentally friendly public transport, including the second phase of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. Minister al-Wazir briefed the meeting on developments in river bus services across Greater Cairo, preparations for the East Nile monorail, progress on the high-speed electric rail network, and plans for the sixth metro line. The meeting also addressed rerouting sections of the Alexandria-Matrouh railway line as part of wider efforts to modernise Egypt’s rail network. Discussions further focused on Egypt’s strategy to develop its maritime transport sector and position the country as a regional hub for logistics and transit trade through port expansion, construction of new berths, and deepening navigation channels. Minister Al-Wazir highlighted ongoing cooperation with African nations, including Djibouti and Tanzania, through joint transport initiatives. Al-Sisi stressed the need to complete all transport projects on schedule and to the highest standards, particularly public transport systems, to improve services, attract investment, and enhance tourism. He also emphasised the importance of localising transport industries and maximising the benefits of existing infrastructure to support economic growth and create employment opportunities.