Egypt’s Civil Aviation Minister Sameh El Hefny has reaffirmed that the Arab Civil Aviation Organization (ACAO) remains a strategic partner in advancing the Arab civil aviation sector, emphasizing Egypt’s continued commitment to aviation cooperation across the region. Speaking during a meeting held at the ministry’s headquarters with ACAO Director General Khalid El-Sharkawy, El Hefny discussed measures aimed at strengthening coordination and reinforcing joint efforts to enhance the Arab air transport system while deepening integration among Arab countries in the civil aviation sector.
As Egypt currently serves as chair of the organization’s General Assembly, the minister said the country will continue supporting the organization’s work while encouraging broader aviation cooperation, expertise-sharing and collaboration among member states.
During the discussions, El Hefny welcomed the confidence placed in Egypt by Arab countries through its election to chair the organization’s General Assembly, noting that the decision reflects the country’s pivotal role in supporting joint Arab action and promoting stronger collaboration and integration in civil aviation. The minister also congratulated El-Sharkawy on assuming his new responsibilities as director general of the ACAO and wished him success in leading the organization during the coming period. For his part, El-Sharkawy thanked El Hefny for the warm reception and commended Egypt’s leading role, as well as its advanced expertise and capabilities, which contribute to backing the organization’s work, enhancing Arab cooperation and advancing its strategic objectives.
Capacity Building and Regional Coordination Take Priority
The meeting focused on the organization’s priorities for the coming period, including mechanisms to implement the General Assembly’s decisions and recommendations. Discussions also covered the development of capacity-building programs and increased coordination among Arab member states to strengthen the Arab civil aviation system, respond to regional and international developments, and contribute to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
As part of his visit to Cairo, El-Sharkawy also visited the headquarters of the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA), where he was received by its Chairman, Sameh Mohamed Fawzy. During the visit, both sides stressed the importance of exchanging expertise and enhancing technical capabilities between the ACAO and the ECAA. They also underscored the value of continuing aviation cooperation to advance the Arab civil aviation system in line with the organization’s objectives while improving aviation safety, security and air transport efficiency in the interests of Arab states.
