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Red Sea bridge plan a historic step

Salman's visit has also led to a number of bilateral agreements, which will see new investment projects in both the countries.

Saudi Arabia and Egypt reiterated their geostrategic relations by agreeing to build a bridge over the Red Sea. This is an epoch-making moment for both the Arab countries, as the proposed 30-mile-long concrete connection will take their trade relations to new heights. The announcement was made by the Custodian of the two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia, during his first official visit to Egypt on Friday. President Abdul Fattah El Sisi reciprocated the gesture by naming the landmark bridge after the Saudi king, and termed it as a new chapter on the "road of Arab joint action".
Salman's visit has also led to a number of bilateral agreements, which will see new investment projects in both the countries. At present the trade volume between the two states is to the tune of around $5 billion. Riyadh had supported Cairo with billions of dollars to keep the strife-torn country's economy afloat in the wake of Arab Spring, and backs President Sisi's policies. Their difference of opinion over Syria and Yemen were downplayed, and both the leaders focused on ushering in a new era of prosperity and stability.
The proposed causeway over the strategic straits connecting Nabq in Egypt and Ras Alsheikh Hamid in Saudi Arabia has parallels with the Bosporus Bridge, which links Turkey with Europe. The steel suspension geographically connects Asia with Europe. Similarly, the Red Sea Bridge will connect the Middle East with Africa. It is estimated to cost $4 billion and will be greatly in demand for tourism and logistical purposes for many of the countries in Africa, including Sudan. At a time when the region is in upheaval at the hands of Daesh and the like, and efforts are under way to marginalise trade and transit relations, it is no less than a leadership treat to connect the brotherly nations. Of late, Saudi Arabia's role in assembling the Syrian opposition for a meaningful dialogue over their war-torn country, and its efforts to salvage Yemen from the Houthi rebels are highly appreciated. This colossal crossing connecting the two continents will have far-reaching geo-economic dividends.