During the 3rd TECHLOG Steering Committee meeting held in Beirut, Lebanon several noteworthy events unfolded. The focal point was the launch event of the Eastern Living Lab, an endeavor centered around the technological transfer for logistics innovation in the Mediterranean region. Organized by the Chamber of Beirut and Mount Lebanon, the event garnered participation from TECHLOG partners and stakeholders from Italy, Spain, Tunisia, Egypt, and Lebanon. This assembly culminated in the signing of two pivotal cooperation agreements in innovation and training between the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) and prominent logistics entities: Egyptian Global Logistics Company (EGL) and Ship & C.R.E.W.

At the heart of this collaborative initiative were the interviews conducted by AASTMT with representatives from EGL and Ship & C.R.E.W. These interviews provided insights into how these logistics stakeholders view the TECHLOG project's goals and the potential benefits it could bring to their respective industries. Sherine Fawzy, Business Administration Manager at Ship & C.R.E.W, emphasized the importance of improving driver performance through safe driving practices, while Mohamed El Kady, Marketing & Contract Manager at EGL, highlighted the technological advancements and standardized logistics services that could result from the project's efforts. Both stakeholders expressed their eagerness to engage with Mediterranean countries in addressing shared challenges and developing practical solutions through workshops and collaborative efforts.

EGL, a renowned logistics service provider with a rich history dating back to 1983, has positioned itself as a leader in project transportation and heavy lift logistics. Their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction has propelled them to collaborate with AASTMT and TECHLOG to explore the integration of cutting-edge technologies like IoT, augmented reality, and automation systems into their services. With over 400 experts and a wide network of partners, EGL's dedication to training, professional development, and adherence to quality standards further underscores their active participation in the project.

Ship & C.R.E.W, a market leader in port operations, container services, and land transport, has demonstrated its expertise in the maritime field since its establishment in 1993. Under the leadership of Admiral Mahmoud El Sammak, the company has prioritized integrity, sustainability, and efficiency. Their involvement in national projects related to clean energy showcases their commitment to responsible practices. Ship & C.R.E.W's engagement in TECHLOG aligns with their values and expertise, allowing them to contribute to discussions, coordination, and shared knowledge with other Mediterranean countries.

The signed cooperation agreements between AASTMT and EGL, as well as AASTMT and Ship & C.R.E.W, lay the foundation for a coordinated approach in implementing TECHLOG activities. The agreements are aimed at fostering innovation, knowledge-sharing, capacity building, and technical consultancy. Both AASTMT and the logistics companies have a collective vision of placing training and innovation at the forefront of their strategies, thereby leveraging human capital and expertise to achieve concrete results. The agreements also encompass the creation of thematic pilot actions to test and validate innovation initiatives, particularly in the realm of advanced driving simulators.

These interviews and agreements embody the collaborative spirit of the TECHLOG project, showcasing how diverse stakeholders are uniting to address challenges, share experiences, and propel the logistics and transportation sectors forward. As the Mediterranean countries pool their resources and insights, the project's potential to enhance efficiency, streamline operations, and contribute to the growth of individual nations and the broader Mediterranean community becomes increasingly promising. The TECHLOG project is poised to create a lasting impact on the logistics landscape, bridging geographical boundaries for the collective benefit of all involved.