Dr. Suzie Rashad, a professor of international relations and deputy dean of a private university's economics faculty, emphasized that October is a month of pride for Egyptians. Egypt fought three major battles to reclaim Sinai, starting with the October 1973 war, followed by peace negotiations, and finally a legal battle that resulted in the recovery of Taba. This model of reclaiming Taba is a unique Egyptian example of not relinquishing an inch of land.
Dr. Rashad highlighted that after reclaiming land, the fourth battle was the battle of development, which is a political approach with various economic tools, including the Suez Canal Economic Zone. The goal is to enhance Egyptian sovereignty and national security, with Sinai being an integral part of it. Since reclaiming Sinai was not enough, it was essential to develop it. The basic strategy, led by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, focused on achieving security and development simultaneously.
The 2014 national strategy for developing Sinai aimed to create a comprehensive and advanced development path through multiple axes. The first axis was to establish security and stability, as development cannot be achieved without stability. The initial step was to combat terrorism, with the state sacrificing martyrs from the armed forces, police, and Sinai residents. Another crucial axis was to break Sinai's isolation by connecting it to the Valley through tunnels and a network of roads and tunnels.
Dr. Rashad noted that the Suez Canal Economic Zone was based on maximizing the benefits of the strategic location of the Suez Canal, transforming it from a mere shipping lane to a global industrial, logistical, and economic center. Sinai is part of this zone, and the economic zone has positively impacted it by establishing industries and not just utilizing raw materials. Products from Sinai are now exported abroad, and the Arish port is part of a large project in the region.
The Suez Canal Economic Zone has enhanced development and stability in Sinai, making all development projects comprehensive. Dr. Rashad also mentioned that the zone has contributed to the growth of various sectors, including industry, mining, and agriculture. The state has implemented infrastructure projects and water desalination plants in northern and central Sinai, which has potential agricultural resources.
In addition to industry and agriculture, the tourism sector in cities like Sharm El-Sheikh, Taba, Nuweiba, and Saint Catherine has also been developed. The Suez Canal Economic Zone has played a significant role in promoting these sectors, contributing to the overall development of Sinai. The zone has also helped to create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the region.
Dr. Rashad concluded that the development of Sinai is part of Egypt's comprehensive development strategies. The Suez Canal Economic Zone has been instrumental in promoting development and stability in the region, enhancing Egypt's national security and sovereignty. The zone's impact on Sinai's development has been significant, and it continues to play a vital role in the region's growth.
Key points
- The Suez Canal Economic Zone has boosted development in Sinai.
- Dr. Suzie Rashad highlights the importance of the Suez Canal Economic Zone in enhancing Egypt's national security and sovereignty.
- The zone has contributed to the growth of various sectors, including industry, mining, agriculture, and tourism.
