Doha,
(QNA) – The 64th board meeting and the 32nd general assembly of the Arab Sea Ports Federation (ASPF) kicked off in Doha on Wednesday. Held on the sidelines of the Seatrade Maritime Qatar Conference and Exhibition, the meeting gathered representatives from 14 member states of the federation, as well as officials from various Arab and national institutions working in the maritime sector.
CEO of Mwani Qatar Capt. Abdullah Mohamed Al Khanji, while presiding over the meeting, commended the federation’s role in fostering knowledge exchange among Arab ports.
He remarked that today’s gathering 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, he said.
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 stated, adding: “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. We remain committed to supporting all initiatives that promote the integration and collaboration of Arab ports -whether through investment in advanced maritime infrastructure and technology or through the exchange of expertise and knowledge with our Arab counterparts.” In his speech at the beginning of the meeting, Secretary-General of the Arab Sea Ports Federation Rear Admiral Essam EL-Din Badawy expressed gratitude to Qatar for hosting the federation’s regular gathering. He emphasized the meeting’s importance in advancing the federation’s objectives, which focus on strengthening cooperation among member states and fostering joint initiatives in the ports and maritime transport sector. This collaboration, he noted, is essential for enhancing intra-Arab trade and achieving economic integration.
He also stressed the significance of the meeting’s agenda, particularly in light of the complex challenges facing the region. He called for collective efforts to implement the recommendations put forth, aiming to enhance integration among Arab ports, strengthen cooperation, and improve overall performance across all Arab maritime facilities. (QNA)
