US and Egypt Launch Bilateral Forum to Advance Port Infrastructure and Maritime Innovation

US and Egyptian officials officially opened the US-Egypt Ports Infrastructure and Maritime Innovation Forum in New Cairo on Sunday, August 23, 2026, gathering to discuss port development, maritime technology, artificial intelligence, and investment opportunities.

US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Robert Silverman and US Deputy Secretary of Commerce Mark Mitchell inaugurated the event, alongside Egypt’s Transport Minister Kamel el Wazir, who addressed the attendees.

The US Embassy stated that American companies showcased advanced technologies designed to support Egypt’s port infrastructure and artificial intelligence sectors, while simultaneously creating fresh avenues for trade and investment between the two nations.

Robert Silverman emphasized that the United States fully supports Egypt’s ongoing efforts to establish world-class maritime infrastructure, noting that American firms are ideally positioned to compete for forthcoming projects and deepen bilateral commercial ties.

Mark Mitchell highlighted Egypt's critical strategic position in global trade and technology. He noted that collaborative efforts between the US and Egypt can effectively drive the modernization of maritime transport, enhance the Suez Canal corridor, and facilitate the implementation of advanced US artificial intelligence and data infrastructure technologies.

Furthermore, the forum served as a bridge connecting American companies with lucrative opportunities across Egypt’s maritime, logistics, data, and cloud computing sectors.

Notable Egyptian participants at the event included Suez Canal Economic Zone Chairman Mostafa Sheikhon, North Sinai Governor Khaled Megawer, and Deputy Transport Minister for Maritime Transport Nihad Shahin.

Ultimately, the United States remains committed to expanding bilateral trade and private-sector investment through strategic cooperation with Egypt in the fields of maritime infrastructure and technology.