Cairo: Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouli gave the green light for the trial operation of the first line of Egypt's high-speed electric train (Ain Sokhna / El-Alamein / Matrouh) during his inspection visit with Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Industry and Transport Kamel el Wazir. The visit took place at the 'Velaro' high-speed train showcased at the intelligent transport systems exhibition and conference in Cairo.

According to State Information Service Egypt, during the visit, Madbouli followed, via live broadcast, the movement of the regional electric train 'Desiro'. This train operates on the first line of the high-speed network from October Gardens, passing through Fayyoum Bridge and el Maiyah Bridge, reaching kilometer 143. This marked the start of the trial phase for this significant project, which represents a major advancement in Egypt's modern transport system.

Wazir described the project as a national endeavor implemented by Egyptian engineers and workers who continue to impress the world with their accomplishments. He stated that the high-speed rail network will span across Egypt, acting as a developmental artery connecting new and existing industrial zones such as Helwan, 15th of May City, Borg El Arab, 6th of October, New Minya, and New Assiut, as well as tourist destinations like Giza, Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel, and the Red Sea resorts.

The network is also set to connect new agricultural areas, including the New Delta, Future of Egypt, Toshka, and East Oweinat, while creating logistical corridors linking the Red Sea and Mediterranean. This will unite production areas with export ports and support sustainable urban development, Wazir explained.

Madbouli and Wazir also inspected two refurbished Spanish-made sleeper and club train cars, upgraded at Colway Egypt, in partnership with the Egyptian National Railways Authority and Colway Spain. The tour included rail infrastructure components now manufactured domestically, such as concrete sleepers and switches produced by Voestalpine Egypt for Turnout Technology.

Madbouli viewed Egyptian-made boats and marine units used in national ports, highlighting progress in localizing maritime manufacturing.