SUEZ, Egypt — The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) has expressed appreciation to the US and other countries' offers to contribute to the ongoing efforts to dislodge the container ship that ran aground during its passage through the Suez Canal.

"The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) values the offer of the United States of America to contribute to these efforts, and looks forward to cooperating with the U.S. in this regard in appreciation of this good initiative which confirms the friendly relations and cooperation between the two countries," SCA Spokesperson George Safwat, said in a statement today.

"Furthermore, the SCA expresses sincere gratitude for all the offers it received for assistance in this regard; while also highlighting the ongoing efforts toward re-floating the container ship, and affirming its keenness on ensuring regular global maritime traffic in the Suez Canal as soon as possible," he added. — WAM