On May 11th, Egypt approved plans to expand and deepen the southern section of the Suez Canal to prevent ship blockages. The ceremony was attended by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and top government officials. The expansion involves widening the southern stretch of the canal by approximately 40 meters from km122 to km162, with a depth increase to 19-21 meters. Additionally, Egypt plans to extend another 10 kilometers from km122-132 to allow two-way traffic. This 24-month project aims to improve navigation capabilities, reducing the risk of vessel incidents. In 2014-2015, Egypt invested over $8 billion to expand the northern section of the canal.