Alexandria, Egypt – March 5, 2024
The Arab Federation of Shipping (AFOS) held its 20th Board of Directors meeting on March 5, 2024, under the chairmanship of Mr. Mohamed Suleiman Metwally, President of the Federation. The meeting was attended by Professor Hussein Selim Al-Bayouk, Transport Sector Official, representing the Secretary-General of the Council of Arab Economic Unity; Mr. Mohamed Mostafa Aitani, Secretary-General of the Federation; and Professor Mostafa Rasheed, Assistant President of the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport.
The session was opened with a welcome speech by the Federation’s President, who emphasized that during this term, the Board would build upon the achievements of previous sessions and continue its role as a key driver of innovation and development in the maritime sector. He stressed the need for a clear strategic plan to achieve the Federation’s objectives, which include:
- Unifying efforts and fostering cooperation among members to advance and expand Arab maritime transport.
- Enhancing operational efficiency and broadening the sector’s activities to support economic development and facilitate the movement of passengers and goods within Arab countries and globally.
- Strengthening economic integration among Arab nations.
- Expanding membership to include private sector representatives, including shipowners, operators, and shipyard owners.
- Organizing workshops and meetings to enhance collaboration and offer additional benefits to members.
Following the opening remarks, attendees proceeded with discussions on the meeting agenda, approving the minutes from the 19th Board of Directors meeting held on November 18, 2023, reviewing the financial statements as of December 31, 2023, and approving the financial discharge of the Board and General Secretariat for the previous fiscal period. Additionally, the estimated budget for 2024 was presented and approved.