Hussain Al-Mannai
The Afro-Asian Union for Development, Tourism, and Technology (AFASU) awarded General Khaled Fouda, the Governor of South Sinai, the Gold Award for the Best Leading Governor in Tourism Development globally, recognizing his efforts in sustainable development and tourism in the province. Additionally, Sharm El Sheikh was crowned the Best Safe Tourist Destination in the world.
During a grand ceremony, General Khaled Fouda received three shields for the award in both Arabic and English from Dr. Hossam Darwish, the President of the Union, and members of the executive council and the International Awards Committee. He also received a special honor shield under the name of the Sustainable Development Man, appreciating his clear efforts in transforming Sharm El Sheikh into a sustainable city.
This award honors leaders who have positively contributed to the development of their countries and economies, promoting global development for their nations. General Khaled Fouda was recognized for embracing creative ideas, supporting them, and expediting their implementation for the benefit of his country, demonstrating innovation, renewal, and excellence in government management.
In his acceptance speech, General Khaled Fouda expressed his happiness with the award, emphasizing that Sharm El Sheikh is a green, smart city, known for its livability, coexistence, and as a conference hub. He stated that this recognition is a culmination of years of hard work, during which the city achieved the UN classification as the best global tourist city and the first center for resilience in the face of natural disasters.
In a special statement to “Al-Ittihad,” General Khaled Fouda praised the fraternal and historical Emirati-Egyptian relations. He confirmed that the UAE has a significant role in Sharm El Sheikh through its support for the camel racing track, inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE, and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi.
General Fouda noted that the first camel racing festival in Sharm El Sheikh was held in cooperation with the UAE, highlighting that the UAE was also the first to present awards for the festival. He affirmed that the relations between the two countries are growing stronger and more resilient every day for the better.
Minister of Local Development, Major General Hesham Amin, in an exclusive statement to “Al-Ittihad,” praised the fraternal relations between the UAE and Egypt, extending since the era of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may he rest in peace. He also commended the distinguished relationship between the two countries at both the popular and governmental levels, pointing to the successful partnership between the parties.
Minister Amin praised the UAE’s support for Egypt, confirming that the UAE is a crucial and supportive sisterly country. He expressed his thanks to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and all the people of the UAE for their continuous support.
The Minister highlighted the UAE’s significant support for Egypt, pointing out that the relations between the two countries are growing stronger and more robust. He specifically appreciated the deal to establish the Ras Al-Hikma Tourism City on the Mediterranean coast between the Egyptian and UAE sides. This project will have a substantial impact on supporting Egyptians during the economic crisis they are experiencing, reflecting the unwavering support from the UAE.
During the visit, General Khaled Fouda and the delegation toured the landmarks of Sharm El Sheikh to witness the technological advancements the city has undergone recently. The delegation visited the South Sinai Governorate building, the Unified Security Display Center, the International Camel Racing Track spanning 1000 acres, and the Heritage Village.
It is noteworthy that Sharm El Sheikh won the award for the Best Safe Tourist Destination in the world, facing stiff competition with five global tourist cities. However, Sharm El Sheikh secured 100% of the votes from the 42-member international judging committee, considering criteria such as tourism, sustainability, economic performance, health, safety, transportation networks, and peace.
This prestigious award recognizes Sharm El Sheikh for its outstanding development despite the regional circumstances, maintaining its position as a safe and peaceful tourist destination, friendly to tourists, and one of the leading cities. The city has successfully hosted 70,000 participants, including world leaders and heads of governments, during the COP27 climate conference.
The Afro-Asian Union for Development, Tourism, and Technology (AFASOT) aims to promote cooperation and exchange of experiences in the development, tourism, and technology sectors among its member countries. The Gold Award for Best Leading Governor in Tourism Development is a significant recognition of General Khaled Fouda’s outstanding contributions to sustainable development and tourism in South Sinai.
