Egypt, Cyprus sign framework gas cooperation deal, eye strategic partnership

Egypt and Cyprus signed on Monday a framework agreement on natural gas cooperation on the sidelines of the Egypt Energy Show (EGYPES 2026), underscoring growing energy ties between the two Mediterranean countries.

The agreement was signed by Egypt’s Petroleum Minister Karim Badawy and Cyprus’ Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry Michael Damianos in the presence of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Cypriot President Nicos Christodoulides.

Ahead of the ceremony, Sisi held a bilateral meeting with Christodoulides, during which the leaders discussed the two countries’ “distinguished” relations and expanding cooperation in energy. El-Sisi expressed Egypt’s desire to elevate the bilateral framework to a “strategic partnership” to match the intensity of current coordination in regional and international forums.

Christodoulides praised Egypt’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and emphasised Cyprus’ pride in its close relationship with Cairo. Both leaders also discussed regional developments, with Sisi reaffirming Egypt’s condemnation of attacks on Arab states and highlighting efforts to de-escalate tensions and return to diplomacy.

The Cypriot president, speaking during the event, noted his sixth visit to Egypt since taking office in 2023 and welcomed the new energy agreement amid regional challenges. He described energy as a central axis of the partnership between Egypt and the European Union.

Sisi, meanwhile, highlighted ongoing work to bring Cypriot gas fields to global markets and facilitate their integration with Egyptian liquefaction facilities, reiterating the importance of cooperation in strategic sectors.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English