Cairo: Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Karim Badawi met Cypriot Ambassador to Egypt Polly Ioannou to discuss accelerating joint natural gas projects and expanding cooperation in the mining sector.

According to State Information Service Egypt, Badawi stated that Egypt and Cyprus have made steady progress in developing Cypriot gas fields and connecting them to Egypt's gas infrastructure through partnerships with major international energy companies. He emphasized that these projects will bolster Egypt's role as a regional energy hub, enhance regional energy security, and boost gas exports to European markets.

The minister also reviewed recent reforms aimed at improving Egypt's mining investment climate, mentioning that these reforms have attracted new international interest. He highlighted that cooperation with Cypriot companies is expected to grow as investment opportunities expand.

Discussions also included the return of Cyprus-based FMC to resume gold and mineral exploration in Egypt's Eastern Desert. Ioannou noted that the company plans to expand its operations. Additionally, another Cypriot company is reportedly studying investment opportunities in Egypt's marine bunkering sector.

At the meeting's conclusion, Badawi expressed gratitude to Ioannou for her efforts in strengthening Egypt-Cyprus relations as she nears the end of her diplomatic mission.