Suez Canal is essential, irreplaceable for global supply chains – Japan envoy

Japanese Ambassador to Egypt, Oka Hiroshi reaffirmed the indispensable role of the Suez Canal in global supply chains, emphasizing that it remains irreplaceable and essential to ensuring stability and continuity in international trade. He expressed deep appreciation for the productive partnership between Japan and the Suez Canal Authority (SCA).

Ambassador Oka also praised the strong collaboration between the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the SCA, noting plans to enhance training and technical studies in the near future. He also expressed interest in further engagement with the Japan Ship Owners’ Association to explore potential partnerships, transit policies, and marketing strategies.

These comments were made during a meeting with Osama Rabie, Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority, to discuss avenues of joint cooperation, particularly in areas of training and green transformation initiatives.

The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Japanese Embassy and JICA’s Egypt office.

Meanwhile, Rabie emphasised the SCA’s commitment to open communication and collaborative efforts to serve the global maritime community, especially amidst current security challenges in the Red Sea region. He outlined new services introduced by the SCA to meet the needs of vessels transiting the canal, including maintenance, pollution control, and rescue services.

He also expressed enthusiasm for deepening Egypt-Japan relations through joint projects in investment, training, sustainable development, and other mutual areas of interest.

Becoming ‘a green canal’

Additionally, Rabie highlighted the SCA’s progress toward green transformation, aiming to establish the Suez Canal as a “green canal” by 2030. Initiatives include waste removal services in Port Said and Suez as well as converting canal pilot stations to operate on renewable energy.

Attribution:The Egyptian Cabinet