The Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority (SCA), Osama Rabie, met with Thanawat Sirikul, Thailand’s Ambassador to Cairo, to explore avenues of cooperation in maritime services and logistics, according to a statement from the SCA.
Economic ties
Rabie welcomed the ambassador and his delegation, emphasizing the importance of strengthening economic ties and facilitating knowledge and technology exchange between Egypt and Thailand. He highlighted the ongoing transformation of the Suez Canal, noting that the authority is expanding its economic activities and diversifying revenue streams beyond traditional transit fees.
New services being developed include fuel supply, marine rescue, crew replacement, and waste collection. The SCA also has plans to grow its shipbuilding, repair, and maintenance capabilities through its affiliated shipyards and companies.
Ambassador Sirikul reaffirmed Thailand’s interest in closer collaboration with Egypt, particularly in port services, canal operations, and training programs. He also expressed interest in partnering on maritime tourism initiatives, pointing to the strategic appeal and development potential of the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZone).
Sirikul added that both countries are working to promote outbound tourism between Egypt and Thailand, reflecting broader efforts to deepen bilateral engagement. To advance the shared goals discussed, the two parties agreed to form a joint working group that will develop practical initiatives aimed at fostering long-term cooperation.