Ashraf AboArafe
Ismailia – July 31, 2025
During celebrations marking the 69th anniversary of the nationalization of the Suez Canal, the Suez Canal Authority (SCA) inaugurated several major infrastructure projects in Ismailia Governorate, including the July 26 Water Station, three floating bridges, and the addition of new marine units to the Authority’s fleet.
SCA Chairman Admiral Osama Rabie led the celebrations, attended by Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources Dr. Hani Sewilam, Ismailia Governor Major General Akram Galal, Port Said Governor Major General Moheb Habashy, Suez Governor Major General Tarek El-Shazly, and other senior military, security, and academic officials. The event was held at the new marina building in Ismailia.
Major Announcements and Project Launches
- Opening of the July 26 Water Station with a production capacity of 180,000 cubic meters, covering Ismailia’s water needs until 2037.
- Inauguration of three floating bridges as part of the national plan to connect Sinai to the Nile Valley:
- Martyr Major Amir Ibrahim Awadallah Bridge
- Martyr Colonel Islam Abu El-Makarem Bridge
- Martyr Soldier Islam Mohamed El-Sayed Bridge
- Fleet expansion, including:
- Hoisting the Egyptian flag on tugboats Azm 1 and Azm 2 (each with 90-ton bollard pull).
- Launching five new Bahhar-class patrol boats.
- Commissioning the Azima 7 rescue tug (12-ton pull) and Team Azima tug (9-ton pull).
Admiral Rabie’s Key Remarks
Admiral Rabie described the nationalization of the Suez Canal as a pivotal moment in Egypt’s history, restoring full sovereignty over the nation’s vital economic artery. “The nationalization was not just about reclaiming an economic asset—it marked the birth of a new era of independence and leadership,” he said.
Vital Statistics Since Nationalization (1956–2025):
- $153.4 billion in total revenues
- 1.1 million ships transited the canal
- 33.076 billion tons in net cargo tonnage
Rabie noted the canal’s tremendous evolution:
- Channel depth increased from 10 to 22 meters
- Vessel capacity rose from 30,000 tons in 1956 to 240,000 tons today
- Two-way traffic lanes expanded from 27.7 km to 99 km
He emphasized that 692 marine units have joined the SCA fleet since the 1952 revolution, with 113 units added since 2019 alone.
Rabie credited President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi for unprecedented support and vision, leading to a surge in strategic development projects that have solidified the Canal’s global prominence and resilience in the face of international challenges.
Calls for Action and Industry Cooperation
Admiral Rabie issued a direct appeal to global insurance companies, urging them to reassess premiums imposed on vessels navigating the Red Sea, and to reassure global shipping lines about the safety and viability of returning to the Suez Canal route.
He also highlighted Egypt’s progress in localizing shipbuilding and maritime services, affirming the SCA’s capacity to undertake shipbuilding and related projects across Africa and the Arab world, thanks to advanced human and technological resources.
In closing, Rabie reiterated that the Suez Canal remains irreplaceable, fully operated by Egyptians under international conventions and Egyptian sovereignty, serving as the shortest and safest sea route connecting East and West.
Strategic Perspective by Gen. Samir Farag
Renowned strategic expert Major General Dr. Samir Farag delivered a presentation outlining the historical and geopolitical importance of the Suez Canal over generations, calling it a symbol of Egyptian resilience and willpower. He emphasized that continued modernization efforts, under President El-Sisi’s leadership, reaffirm Egypt’s strategic foresight and the Canal’s enduring global role.
Honoring a Hero
The ceremony concluded with a tribute to the family of Martyr Major Amir Ibrahim Awadallah, honoring his ultimate sacrifice in defense of Egypt’s sovereignty and security against terrorism.
George Safwat, Official Spokesperson for the Suez Canal Authority
