Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi on Monday stressed the need to meet project deadlines and conduct a full review of road maintenance nationwide to improve efficiency. He also called for accelerating work on integrated logistics corridors linking production zones with new seaports. During his meeting with senior state officials, Sisi directed officials to attract major global shipping lines and operators in support of Egypt's industrial development and comprehensive economic growth. President Sisi ordered continued development of Egypt's port network to ensure integration with infrastructure completed in recent years. He reviewed updates on new and upgraded ports, including masterplans for Gargoub port and economic zone, Abu Qir port, and a liquid bulk station at East Port Said for petroleum products. The meeting also covered the operation of Galala Marina and the handover of the superstructure at Berenice port. Officials presented expected returns and job opportunities from these projects. The meeting also reviewed progress in transport projects, notably the railway system. Updates included the East–West Nile monorail, related passenger stations, integration with Cairo's bus rapid transit, and surrounding road upgrades. The East Nile monorail line is scheduled to open in November 2025. Officials also presented developments on the first high-speed rail line from Ain Sokhna to Alexandria, Alamein and Marsa Matrouh, planned for June 2026, as well as the Salam–10th of Ramadan–New Administrative Capital line, set for completion in March 2026. The session further discussed plans to expand industrial zones as part of the state's strategy to boost national industry through new factories that meet local demand, localise production and supply inputs domestically. Industry and Transport Minister Kamel Al Wazir highlighted state focus on iron, steel and cement industries, citing progress at Suez Steel and Arish Cement firms. He reaffirmed Egypt's commitment to attracting investment and forming strategic partnerships to expand local and joint manufacturing, reduce imports, increase output for both domestic consumption and exports, and create more jobs. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: M. S. Salama
