Florence: Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Karim Badawi and Alessandro Puliti, the CEO of Italy's leading offshore energy engineering and drilling company Saipem, discussed opportunities for expanding the company's activities in Egypt. The two sides met on the margins of the 26th edition of the Baker Hughes Annual Meeting, with Mohamed Radwan, Vice President of the South Valley Egyptian Petroleum Holding Company (GANOPE), also present.

According to State Information Service Egypt, they reviewed preparations for the West Delta Deep Marine (WDDM) Phase 12 gas development and production project. The discussions also covered Saipem's plans to upgrade and modernize its fleet of rigs and equipment operating in Egypt, supporting intensified exploration activities.

Minister Badawi highlighted the strategic partnership with Saipem, acknowledging its track record in Egypt, particularly in developing the Zohr and Burullus fields. He emphasized Egypt's vision for Saipem to transition from a primary contractor to an investment partner in new natural gas exploration concession areas.

CEO Puliti expressed pride in the partnership with the Egyptian Petroleum Sector and reiterated Saipem's commitment to delivering sustainable engineering technologies and digital solutions to aid Egypt's emission reduction goals. He also praised the investment climate fostered by the Ministry for international companies.

The meeting concluded with Minister Badawi extending an official invitation to Puliti to participate in the upcoming Egypt Energy Show.