Under the patronage of Prof. Dr. Ashraf Heneigal, President of Suez University, the preparatory sessions for the Second International Conference on the Blue Economy and Sustainable Development commenced today. The event was attended by Prof. Dr. Sherif Fahmy, Acting Vice President of the University for Postgraduate Studies and Research; Prof. Dr. Osama Qadour, Acting Vice President of the University for Community Service and Environmental Development; Prof. Dr. Mohamed Saber El-Sabbagh, Dean of the Faculty of Fisheries; a delegation from Shanghai Ocean University, People’s Republic of China; as well as a number of faculty members, researchers, specialists, and representatives of partner institutions and sponsors.

At the opening of the session, Prof. Dr. Mohamed Saber El-Sabbagh delivered a welcoming address in which he conveyed the greetings of Prof. Dr. Ashraf Heneigal, President of the University, and emphasized the University’s commitment to supporting scientific events that contribute to promoting the concepts of sustainable development and the blue economy.

The Dean of the Faculty of Fisheries highlighted the importance of the strategic partnership between Suez University and Shanghai Ocean University, explaining that international cooperation represents a fundamental pillar for exchanging expertise and knowledge and advancing scientific research in the fields of fisheries, aquaculture, and the blue economy.

He also explained that the blue economy represents an integrated development model that brings together scientific research, innovation, investment, and sound resource management. He further highlighted the pivotal role played by the Faculty of Fisheries at Suez University in preparing specialized professionals and supporting research and applications related to fisheries, aquaculture, and marine technology.

Prof. Dr. Ashraf Heneigal, President of the University, affirmed that hosting and organizing this scientific event reflects the University’s commitment to strengthening its role as a center of expertise and a platform for scientific and applied dialogue on issues related to sustainable development and the blue economy.

He also noted that Suez University places great importance on the blue economy as one of the promising avenues for achieving sustainable development and maximizing the benefits of marine and aquatic resources. “Through this conference and our distinguished international partnerships, foremost among them our cooperation with Shanghai Ocean University, we seek to support applied scientific research, exchange expertise, and build effective partnerships that contribute to developing innovative solutions to developmental challenges and enhancing the competitiveness of the national economy.”

Heneigal added that the University is working to connect scientific research with the needs of society and productive sectors, thereby contributing to the preparation of qualified professionals capable of leading the transition toward more sustainable development models. He emphasized that the conference represents an important opportunity to strengthen cooperation among universities, research institutions, and both the public and private sectors in support of comprehensive development objectives and Egypt’s vision for the future.