SOHAG, April 27 (MENA) - Strategic expert Major General Samir Farag has said the Egyptian state invested some EGP
1.2 trillion in implementing major development projects in Sinai covering agriculture, industry, construction
and investment domains.

During an educational symposium "Sinai from Liberation to Reconstruction," organized by Sohag University Sunday, the startegic expert said, all projects aimed at developing the peninsula, increasing its population density and combating terrorism through comprehensive development.

He noted that the political leadership believes that development is the most important weapon for achieving security and stability.

President of Sohag University Hassan el-
Naamani, Vice Presdient of the University Abdel Nasser Yassin, a number of university and military leaders, deans and vice deans of colleges, general managers and students took part in the symposium that was held at the International Conference Center at the university's new headquarters.

Farag explained that the national projects implemented included the construction of the "Long Live Egypt" tunnels to connect the Sinai Peninsula to the Nile Delta, the reclamation of more than half a million feddans of land and the establishment of seven new cities that will accommodate about 5 million citizens, contributing to increasing the population from 600,000 to more than 5 million in the coming years.

He added that the development projects also included the construction of a modern road network, the resumption of railway lines to Sinai after a 57-year hiatus and the development of the Suez Canal and its economic zone, contributing to a qualitative leap supporting the national economy. He emphasized that these achievements came in implementation of the political leadership's directives to develop Sinai as the first line of defense for Egyptian national security.

Farag pointed out that the Egyptian Armed Forces succeeded in completely liberating Sinai from Israeli occupation following the glorious October 1973 victory. They then
have joined another equally important battle to clear the Land of the Turquoise from the remnants of terrorism from 2013 until now, in parallel with construction and reconstruction efforts.

He said all-out development represents the most powerful weapon for achieving security and stability, adding that the sacrifices of the Armed Forces will remain a symbol of national pride, calling on Egyptian youth to preserve the nation's gains and support development and stability projects.

During the symposium, Farag also
reviewed Sinai's rich history of national struggle, noting that the land of Sinai
has been a scene for battles for liberation and defense of Egypt throughout the ages.

He emphasized that the will of the Egyptians ultimately triumphed, whether in armed battles or construction.

For his part, the president of Sohag University expressed his pride and honor in celebrating the anniversary of the liberation of Sinai, emphasizing that this day was
a symbol of national dignity and the reclaiming of land after a resounding military and political victory.

Naamani pointed out that the October War was a harsh lesson for the Israeli enemy and a resounding victory for the Egyptian military establishment, which rewrote modern military history.

He praised the Egyptian State's tangible
achievements under the leadership of President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, in the
various areas of development in Sinai, including the construction of advanced housing, educational, industrial, and medical projects, in addition to the establishment of four new universities to support higher education in the peninsula.

At the conclusion of the event, Farag held an open dialogue with students and faculty members, during which he answered their enquiries.

President of Sohag University presented Farag with the university shield in appreciation of his role in disseminating
national awareness. (MENA)

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