August 28, 2008

The investigation into the Suez Canal incident involving the vessel “Global Patriot” has been completed. This was a cooperative effort and its findings have been shared with the Government of Egypt.

On behalf of the US government, we would like to express our sincere apology and profound sorrow for this tragic accident, and extend our deepest sympathy to the family of Mr. Mohamed Fouad Affifi, who died as a result. We have offered financial assistance to the family of Mr. Fouad Affifi, realizing of course, that no amount of money could ever compensate his family for the loss of his life.

In over one hundred years of maritime traffic in the Suez Canal, this was the first fatal incident involving a US ship. We are profoundly saddened by this tragedy, and are reviewing our operating procedures as we cooperate closely with the Government of Egypt to ensure that such an incident is not repeated.

The Suez Canal remains a safe, secure and desirable transit route for world shipping due to Egyptian management and superb protection.