Why in news
Egypt has tested a new 10-kilometre extension (6.2 miles) to the Suez Canal, aimed at improving shipping conditions.
The extension is designed to reduce the impact of currents that affect vessels navigating the canal.
This move is part of Egypt’s efforts to boost the canal's capacity, allowing more ships to pass through and reducing congestion.
Suez Canal
The Suez Canal is an artificial sea-level waterway running north to south across the Isthmus of Suez in Egypt, to connect the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea.
The canal separates the African continent from Asia.
It provides the shortest maritime route between Europe and the lands lying around the Indian and western Pacific oceans.
It is one of the world’s most heavily used shipping lanes, carrying over 12% of world trade by volume.
It provides a crucial link for oil, natural gas and cargo being shipped from East to West.
The canal is a major source of income for Egypt’s economy
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