Austrian business delegation conveys digital railway solutions in Egypt

By Aya El Sayed On May 14, 2024

Austrian Ambassador to Cairo, Georg Pöstinger, during the Austrian Railway Forum. Credit: Austrian Embassy.

The Austrian Business Forum, a landmark event for Egypt’s railway sector, convened in Cairo on Tuesday.

Under the auspices of Austrian Ambassador to Cairo, Georg Pöstinger, eight Austrian enterprises showcased their latest technologies and solutions.

The forum cast a spotlight on a variety of innovations, from engineering and maintenance to digital technologies, aimed at propelling Egypt’s railway infrastructure into the future.

Ahead of the forum, Egypt’s Transport Minister, Kamel El-Wazir held a meeting with the Austrian Ambassador and industry leaders, focusing on the domestic production of railway components and the potential for exports to neighbouring regions.

This move, part of a broader strategy to enhance Egypt’s transport sector, promises to foster economic growth and technological exchange between Austria and Egypt.

Egypt’s Ambitious Railway Strategy

Minister El-Wazir affirmed Egypt’s shift towards self-reliance in the railway sector. He emphasised that all railway-related equipment, including tracks, switches, and fixtures shall be manufactured locally.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy to localise the transport industry in Egypt, following the directives of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.

The move aims to leverage international expertise, minimise foreign currency expenditure, and eventually export made-in-Egypt railway components to African and Middle Eastern markets.

Austrian Ambassador Georg Pöstinger, Austrian companies in meetings with the leading authorities and companies, e.g. with the Minister of Transport Kamel El Wazir and the National Authority for Tunnels (NAT). Credit: ADVANTAGE AUSTRIA.