Building Egypt’s New Capital: A Civil Engineer’s Journey with Chinese Partners
Cairo, Egypt’s vibrant capital, is a bustling metropolis home to nearly 20 million people, with projections suggesting this number could double by 2050. To address the mounting population and traffic challenges, the Egyptian government unveiled an ambitious plan in 2015 to construct a new administrative capital, 50 kilometers east of Cairo, in the desert.
This monumental project aims to alleviate the strain on Cairo by creating a modern hub that fosters economic growth, attracts foreign investment, and stimulates development in the Suez Canal and Red Sea regions. At the heart of this endeavor is the collaborative effort between Egypt and China, reflecting the deepening ties since the launch of the Belt and Road Initiative in 2013.
One significant contributor to the project is the China Construction First Group Corporation, tasked with building two major office towers, C07 and C08, in the new capital. Working on Tower C07 is Egyptian civil engineer Amr Mohamed Shaaban, whose experiences illustrate the fruitful cooperation between China and Egypt.
Shaaban’s work on the new administrative capital not only represents personal career growth but also symbolizes the increasing opportunities for locals to engage with Chinese companies. Working alongside Chinese experts has broadened his perspective and allowed him to contribute to a project of national significance.
The fusion of Chinese expertise and Egyptian talent is paving the way for transformative infrastructure developments. These collaborative projects are fostering mutual understanding and creating avenues for economic prosperity.
As the new administrative capital rises from the desert sands, it stands as a testament to international cooperation and the shared vision of building a sustainable future for Egypt. The partnership between China and Egypt continues to open doors for professionals like Shaaban, highlighting the positive impact of global collaboration on local communities.
