The Arab Federation of Shipping (AFOS) took part in the 118th ministerial meeting of the Council of Arab Economic Unity, held at the headquarters of the General Secretariat of the Arab League in Cairo on December 19, 2024. The Federation was represented by Dr. Mohamed Awad, Director of Planning and Research, who attended on behalf of the President of AFOS.
The session was inaugurated by H.E. Ambassador Mohannad Al-Aklouk, Permanent Representative of Palestine to the Arab League, who welcomed the attendees and emphasized the necessity of a unified Arab stance against Israeli actions in the occupied territories, Lebanon, and Syria. He then handed over the presidency of the session to H.E. Ambassador Ataa Afandi Buana, Permanent Representative of the Union of the Comoros to the Arab League, wishing him success. Ambassador Buana, in turn, welcomed the participants, expressing hope for a productive and successful session that would contribute to Arab joint action while extending his appreciation to the outgoing session’s chair.
In his speech, H.E. Ambassador Mohamedi Ahmed Al-Ni, Secretary-General of the Council of Arab Economic Unity, welcomed the country representatives and thanked all attendees. He stressed the importance of Arab cooperation, particularly in light of the region’s political challenges. He also highlighted global economic conditions, which pose significant pressure on many Arab economies, underscoring the necessity for solidarity among nations to achieve economic integration. Additionally, he affirmed the vital role of the specialized federations affiliated with the Council of Arab Economic Unity.