Egypt calls for renewed talks on Palestinian offshore gas development at EMGF meeting in Washington
Egypt called for the resumption of talks on developing Palestinian offshore gas resources during a ministerial meeting of the East Mediterranean Gas Forum (EMGF) in Washington, saying the project could support economic development in the West Bank and Gaza.
Speaking at the 10th EMGF Ministerial Meeting, Petroleum Minister Karim Badawy said reviving efforts to develop Palestinian gas resources would contribute to a more prosperous future for Palestinians and strengthen regional energy cooperation.
Badawy said Egypt’s participation in the meeting reflected its commitment to advancing collaboration among Eastern Mediterranean energy producers and consumers. The meeting was held in Washington following a US invitation to host the gathering outside Egypt for the first time.
The development of Palestinian offshore gas resources, including the Gaza Marine field, has been discussed for years but has faced political and security challenges that have delayed progress.
Badawy described the EMGF as an important platform for promoting energy security and economic growth across the region and said Egypt remained ready to support initiatives aimed at expanding cooperation among member states.
He also highlighted Egypt’s role in regional energy trade, citing its liquefied natural gas export facilities in Idku and Damietta and four FSRUs with a combined capacity of 2.7 billion cubic feet per day.
He also talked about the ongoing energy partnerships with neighbouring countries.
The minister pointed to growing cooperation with Cyprus through the Cronos and Aphrodite gas fields, as well as coordination with Greece and Jordan on energy infrastructure and market integration projects.
Badawy called for increased exploration activity across the Eastern Mediterranean, saying the region recorded 102 oil and gas discoveries between July 2024 and April 2026, including West El Ham Dennis with 2 trillion cubic feet of gas and 130 million barrels of condensates, and expected reserves of 2.5–3.5 trillion cubic feet in the Nargis field.
Badawy reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to the EMGF, saying deeper cooperation and continued investment would be essential to unlocking the Eastern Mediterranean’s energy potential and supporting long-term regional stability.
Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
Subediting: Y.Yasser