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Khadija Jallouli, a young Tunisian entrepreneur with a disability, has called for redoubling international efforts aimed at integrating people with disabilities and involving them in decisions related to finding solutions to the challenges they face.
She is the co-founder and CEO of HawKar, a start-up specialising in manufacturing electric vehicules for people with disabilities with the aim of improving their lives by providing convenient, accessible and sustainable mobility solutions.
Ms. Jalouli spoked about her experience from the podium in the iconic General Assembly Hall at the opening session of the activities of the 17th session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (COSP17), which began on Tuesday and continues until June 13, under the theme Rethinking disability inclusion in the current international juncture and ahead of the Summit of the Future, which is taking place at UN Headquarters in September.
In an interview with UN News, Ms. Jallouli said she is participating in COSP17 to shed light on the challenges facing people in motion and how to find solutions to them to create a more inclusive world as well as to inspire participants to take action to find solutions and involve everyone.
After just twenty years in aviation manufacturing, Morocco has outpaced all African nations to become the continent’s primary supplier of aircraft parts.
Morocco’s aviation manufacturing sector is concluding 2024 with unprecedented growth, as exports surged 17.3% to reach MAD 21.86 billion ($2.1 billion) in the first ten months, surpassing the entire previous year’s record of MAD 21.85 billion.
The North African country has solidified its position as Africa’s primary aviation equipment and spare parts manufacturer, ranking fifth globally among the most dynamic countries in the aviation sector, according to Afaf Saïdi, Director of Aviation, Railway, Naval Industries and Renewable Energies at the Ministry of Industry and Trade.
“Morocco has become the main source of equipment and spare parts at the African level after just twenty years of launching its first initiative in this sector,” Saïdi told the Moroccan News Agency. “This exceptional performance not only demonstrates the resilience of our national aviation industry but also reflects its ability to adapt to global market momentum.”
The sector currently employs 21,000 skilled workers across 142 companies, with a local integration rate exceeding 40%. Industry Minister Riyad Mzour announced in July that Morocco aims to double the sector’s employment by 2030.
This year marked several significant developments for Morocco’s aviation industry. The country hosted the Morocco Air Show 2024 in Marrakech, which facilitated new strategic partnerships with industry giants Boeing and Airbus.
A major milestone was the inauguration of Safran’s $300 million aircraft engine manufacturing facility in Casablanca, expected to create hundreds of jobs and facilitate advanced technology transfer.
‘Adopting a proactive approach’
Other major manufacturers including Bombardier, Stelia, and Aerospace have expanded their investments in the country through new facilities and expansions of existing sites. These initiatives aim to meet growing demand from major aviation companies for high-quality components while contributing to local economic growth.
The government has developed specialized industrial zones for aviation manufacturing, including the Midparc zone, which offers modern infrastructure, ready-to-use land, and tax incentives. The Tanger Med Port plays a pivotal role in supporting the sector’s growth through export operations.
“We are adopting a proactive approach to ensure our aviation industry aligns with rapid global developments,” Saïdi explained. “Innovation is at the core of our priorities, with special focus on environmentally friendly technologies and reducing carbon footprint, strengthening the kingdom’s position as a competitive and sustainable industrial platform.”
The sector’s growth in 2024 represents a significant improvement from 2023’s modest 2.4% increase in exports. This expansion is attributed to strong global demand and product diversification, encompassing spare parts and complete equipment for major aviation manufacturers.
Looking ahead, Morocco’s aviation sector is positioning itself for further expansion through new ecosystem development, implementation of more complex projects, and addressing challenges in digital transformation, decarbonization, and technological innovation, while leveraging the talents of young Moroccan professionals.
Sharjah International Marine Sports Club displayed, during the third day of the Abu Dhabi International Boat Show 2024, the fastest motor boat in the world, reaching a speed of 220 km/h.
This boat, which was locally manufactured by Emirati hands at Sharjah Marine, is an embodiment of Emirati innovation and creativity in the field of marine industries, which enhances the country’s leadership in this sector globally.
On its third day, the exhibition witnessed a large turnout of visitors, with a remarkable presence of international brands that presented their creations for the first time in the Middle East.
Among the highlights of the third day’s shows were the luxury yacht Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63, making its regional debut, and the Finnish-designed Grandesa 37, which combines innovation and practicality
The crew will also perform activities like vegetable cultivation and shrimp farming in an environment designed to simulate space conditions.
In a 45-day space exploration simulation in the US, Obaid AlSuwaidi, a captain engineer at the UAE Ministry of Defence has been selected to join the primary crew scheduled to “walk” on Mars.
AlSuwaidi will join the second analog study of the UAE Analog Programme that is scheduled to begin on November 1.
He will join the primary crew, including Kristen Magas, Tiffany Snyder, and Anderson Wilder, in a 45-day mission within the 650-square-foot Human Exploration Research Analog (HERA) facility at Nasa’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, US. The Analog mission is part of Nasa’s Human Exploration Research Analog (HERA) Campaign 7 Mission 4.
Who is Obaid AlSuwaidi?
In his role at the Ministry, he played a key part in cultivating a skilled team to address the nation’s defence requirements, enhancing productivity, and establishing high professional standards. He also has a wealth of experience in civil and marine engineering.
AlSuwaidi holds a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Western Sydney University in Australia, a master’s degree in civil and environmental engineering from George Washington University in the USA, and a master’s degree in project management from Abu Dhabi University.
Outside of his professional commitments, he enjoys horse riding, swimming, and running.
This year, AlSuwaidi is among the fourth group of volunteers participating in an analog study in HERA. The first phase of the second analog study of the UAE Analog Programme was concluded on March 11, 2024, followed by the completion of the second and third phases on June 25, 2024 and September 23, 2024, respectively.
What is the HERA habitat?
The three-story HERA habitat is designed to simulate the conditions of space exploration on Earth, providing a unique platform for studying human adaptability to isolation and confinement. By mimicking the challenges of long-term space travel, such as missions to Mars, scientists aim to gain insights into how future astronauts will handle the extreme physical and psychological demands of deep space journeys.
During the mission, the crew will engage in various experiments, including a simulated “walk” on Mars using virtual reality, as well as activities like vegetable cultivation and shrimp farming.
Additionally, the crew will experience communication delays with Mission Control, replicating the increasing time lags expected as they “approach” Mars. These delays, which could extend up to five minutes one way, are crucial for understanding how astronauts might cope with similar conditions during future interplanetary missions.
Experiments to aid in deep space missions
Adnan AlRais, Assistant Director General – Space Operations and Exploration Sector, MBRSC said, “We are pleased to announce the selection of Obaid AlSuwaidi for the next phase of the second analog study under the UAE Analog Programme. His involvement in this mission, in collaboration with Nasa, strengthens our scientific foundation in addressing the human factors of long-duration spaceflight.”
He added, “The findings from this study will play a crucial role in shaping the future strategies for deep space missions, including Mars, while reinforcing the UAE’s position as a key player in international space exploration. We remain dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation and inspiring future generations to drive forward our vision of space exploration and scientific discovery.”
The four crewmembers will participate in 18 human health experiments, focusing on physiological, behavioural, and psychological responses in a controlled environment. This research will provide valuable data, which seeks to enhance human resilience and performance in spaceflight conditions.
The Port of Salalah retained its position as the second most efficient container port in the world, according to the 2023 Container Port Performance Index (CPPI). Additionally, Salalah Port claimed the top spot in the West Central and South Asia region.
The CPPI, developed by the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence, is based on an extensive dataset from 405 ports worldwide, the largest to date. This dataset comprises over 182,000 vessel calls, 238.2mn moves, and approximately 381mn twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) for the full calendar year of 2023.
Port performance is measured by the efficiency of vessel turnaround time, known as ‘Total Port Hours’ – the total duration from when a ship reaches the port limits, pilot station, or anchorage zone until it departs the berth after completing its cargo exchange.
According to the report, the Port of Salalah, with 1,146 vessel calls, achieved 164.72 index points, ranking second only to Yangshan in China, which had 3,509 vessel calls and an index score of 177.9.
Amidst the changes in global rankings caused by regional disruptions, China’s Yangshan Port retained its first-place position, while the Port of Salalah secured its second-place ranking. The Port of Cartagena in Colombia moved up to third place, Tanger-Mediterranean in Morocco held fourth, and Malaysia’s Tanjung Pelepas Port rounded out the top five.
Salalah Port’s strategic location, expanding connectivity, and world-class operations provide its customers with a significant competitive edge in the region. As a vital transshipment hub, Salalah also plays a crucial role in boosting the local economy in Dhofar by offering exceptional connectivity for importers and exporters to trade globally.
The port’s high efficiency enhances local business confidence and attracts investment, including foreign direct investment (FDI).
The Port of Salalah is currently carrying out a $300mn container terminal upgrade and expansion project. Next week, the port will receive the final four out of ten new ZPMC ship-to-shore cranes. The first cranes, with a 75-meter/26-container outreach, arrived at the start of 2024 and are currently being commissioned and tested to start operations.
Once the project is completed in the first quarter of 2025, annual capacity at the terminal will increase from 5mn to 6mn TEUs. The extra capacity will allow it to efficiently serve as a key hub for the Gemini Cooperation – a long-term operational collaboration between Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd, which will start in February 2025, with additional capacity available for other shipping lines.
“Retaining this title for the third consecutive year reaffirms our strong commitment to continuous performance improvement, even during challenging times,” said Keld Christensen, CEO of the Port of Salalah.
Scott Selman, Chief Operating Officer of Salalah Port, said, “I am pleased to see the Port of Salalah retaining our position despite the challenges to global container trade that have negatively impacted vessel schedules. The year 2023 has been particularly challenging operationally due to the ongoing Container Terminal upgrade construction.”
The United Arab Emirates, represented by the General Civil Aviation Authority, won re-election to the Executive Council of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization for a period of two years, by unanimous vote.
This came during the elections held during the organization’s General Assembly, which was held in Rabat, Morocco, on July 3 and 4.
His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Civil Aviation Authority, said : “Thanks to the directives of the wise leadership, the UAE is witnessing a new achievement added to the UAE civil aviation sector through its re-election to membership in the Executive Council of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization.”
He explained that this achievement is a confirmation of the strong and distinguished partnership that links the UAE with its brothers in the Arab countries, and an indicator of confidence in the strength and position of the civil aviation sector as a global aviation center.
His Excellency added: “There is no doubt that civil aviation is one of the strong files on the Arab cooperation agenda, which has achieved progress in a number of key files. The UAE is keen to support all efforts that would enhance and develop joint Arab action and advance it to more advanced levels that serve the future development visions of Arab countries and enhance the path of economic growth at the regional level.”
For his part, His Excellency Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the General Civil Aviation Authority, expressed his pride and honor in achieving this accomplishment, which came as a result of the wise vision of the wise leadership and an affirmation of the country’s position as a major and distinguished driver in this sector at the Arab and international levels.
His Excellency explained that the UAE is committed to supporting all efforts aimed at enhancing joint Arab action, especially in the civil aviation sector. The country will continue to support the initiatives and efforts of the Arab Organization, and work with the elected Chairman of the Executive Council to support the strategic and administrative plans of the organization, in a way that achieves benefit and ensures a safe and sustainable future for the Arab aviation sector, enhances the weight and strength of the Arab Group in the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and contributes to raising the Arab civil aviation sector to a more advanced and prosperous position.
It is noteworthy that the Executive Council of the organization consists of nine members elected by the General Assembly from among the candidates of the member states of the organization for a period of two years, and is responsible for the decisions and recommendations of the organization.
DP World announced today the completion of a $400 million expansion project at the Port of Callao in the Republic of Peru, to enhance the container handling capacity of the port’s southern terminal by 80%.
The Bicentennial Pier expansion project focused on increasing the length of the berth from 650 meters to 1,050 metres, making Callao one of the few ports in South America capable of accommodating three ships, or two mega ships, at the same time.
On the other hand, the project increased the handling capacity from 1.5 million TEUs (twenty-foot containers) to 2.7 million TEUs annually, and the container yard was also expanded to reach a total area of 40 hectares.
According to DP World, the Callao Port expansion project comes within the framework of ambitions to expand in Latin America, which were announced last month.
His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World Group, said: “We are proud to contribute to a more sustainable future for Peru and for global trade.”
He added: “This investment confirms our firm commitment to supporting economic growth in the region and strengthening Callao’s leading logistics position, as a commercial center that sets new standards for sustainable port operations in South America.”
For his part, Carlos Merino, CEO of DP World in Peru and Ecuador, said that the completion of the Bicentennial Pier expansion project represents a turning point for the economy in Peru, which considers the port of Callao its economic center, through which more than 90 passengers are handled. % of the goods transported by containers in the country, and 60% of those goods are transported through the southern terminal.
In addition to expanding the quay and container handling capabilities, the project also adds state-of-the-art electrical powered equipment to the southern terminal at Callao Port. Including 15 cranes and 20 internal transport vehicles, making it the first port terminal in the world to have an equipment fleet of this size.
Merino added: “With the introduction of the latest electrically powered equipment and the application of sustainable practices, we are paving the way for a more efficient and sustainable future of global trade.”
To promote the transition towards sustainable energy in Peru, the southern terminal in the port of Callao now has the first electric vehicle charging station in Latin America with a capacity of 2 megawatts, to support DP World’s fleet of electric internal transportation vehicles, and contribute to reducing more than 2,000 tons of emissions. carbon dioxide annually.
Transaction, first announced in September 2023, represents Aramco’s first downstream retail investment in South America.
Saudi Aramco successfully completed the acquisition of a 100 percent equity stake in Chile’s Esmax Distribucion, a leading diversified downstream fuels and lubricants retailer, it was announced on Friday.
Esmax has a national presence that includes retail fuel stations, airport operations, fuel distribution terminals and a lubricant blending plant.
The transaction, which was first announced in September 2023, represented Aramco’s first downstream retail investment in South America, illustrating the attractiveness of this market, and supports the Saudi company’s strategic goal to strengthen its downstream value chain.
“We are delighted to conclude the acquisition of Esmax and look forward to working with the outstanding team on the ground in Chile to achieve our shared ambitions,” Yasser Mufti, Aramco executive vice president of products & customers, said.
“Aramco aims to be a primary global retail player and this deal combines our high quality products and services, including Valvoline lubricants, with the experience and quality of an established operator in Chile.”
source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)
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Pictured at the transaction closing are Southern Cross Group Partner Raul Sotomayor, front left, and Aramco Europe President & CEO Mazin Dabbagh, front right. Back row, from left, are Southern Cross Group Partner Jaime Besa, Aramco Vice-President of Retail and Esmax Chairman Ziyad Juraifani, and Aramco International Retail Director Nader Al Douhan. (Aramco)
Invention scans for threats and informs driver on display or mobile
Boost for Saudi Arabia’s Ceer Motors, fledgling electric car industry, says lead developer
King Saud University in Riyadh has been granted a patent in the US for software that protects the computer systems of electric cars when linking to charging stations.
The invention is named the Motor Vehicle Cyber Inspection System. After conducting an inspection, the system notifies the driver of the cybersecurity status on a smart display or mobile device. The system can scan for malware, ransomware, backdoors, data leakage, and software vulnerabilities.
Announcing the receipt of the patent, the KSU media center said Thursday the team that achieved this success was led by Prof. Muhammad Khurram Khan and included Dr. Wazir Khan.
“This breakthrough patent achievement highlights KSU’s dedication to pioneering research and technological advancements, solidifying its position at the forefront of innovation in automotive cybersecurity,” it said.
The approval was granted by the US Patent and Trademark Office on Jan. 16, and the application was submitted in March 2023.
Khan, who led the team, told Arab News: “The granting of this US patent to the KSU represents a momentous achievement in the realm of cybersecurity, particularly for the burgeoning automotive sector in Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030. The invention holds substantial significance for the local automotive industry, particularly for entities like Ceer Motors and the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Company.”
“Saudi Vision 2030 emphasizes the importance of developing a skilled and knowledgeable workforce to meet the demands of a diversified economy. Therefore, the development and implementation of advanced technologies, as reflected in the patent, contribute to job creation and skill development,” he added.
Khan further said: “Integrating patented technology into vehicles and charging stations would offer a considerable competitive advantage. It would not only enhance the cybersecurity resilience of automotive products but also position local manufacturers at the forefront of technological innovation and economic diversification efforts while the Saudi automotive industry is taking off.”
He added that the “patent aligns with the national goals of technological innovation and localization. By implementing this technology locally, companies could contribute to building indigenous capabilities, fostering economic growth, and creating high-value jobs in the technology and automotive sectors.”
Under the Vision 2030 initiative, Saudi Arabia is actively diversifying its economy, with a particular emphasis on the automotive sector. This commitment is exemplified by the establishment of Ceer Motors, the Kingdom’s inaugural EV brand, dedicated to manufacturing local electric vehicles.
Moreover, a recent development includes the launch of the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Co., or EVIQ, a strategic initiative to bolster EV adoption. The firm aims to facilitate this transition by establishing a nationwide network of 1,000 charging stations consisting of 5,000 chargers by 2030.
The ship is the first of its kind to be built entirely by the Alexandria Shipyard in Egypt.
Egypt’s Alexandria shipyard made history, as it launched the fourth and final MEKO A200 frigate, named ‘Sajm Al-Jabbar’ for the Egyptian Navy. This frigate holds significant importance as it is not only the largest locally produced combat vessel but also the first of its kind to be constructed in Egypt under the Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) license.
The ship was unveiled in a ceremony held during the EDEX 2023 defense exhibition at Egypt International Exhibition Center in Cairo, with President Abdel Fattah El Sisi in attendance as the chief guest alongside other high-ranking officials.
Egypt had placed an order for four identical frigates, with the first three units being built in Germany, while the final ship was constructed at the Alexandria shipyard in Egypt. The construction contract was signed back in September 2018.
