Written by: Islam El-Saqqa
President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi emphasized the importance of honesty and transparency with citizens regarding economic challenges, recalling a previous conversation he had with Hesham Qandil, the former Prime Minister, while Sisi was serving as Minister of Defense. During his participation in the session titled "The Egyptian Energy Journey.. National Achievements and Future Horizons" within the activities of the Egypt 2026 Forum, El-Sisi indicated that he had insisted at the time on the necessity of informing public opinion about the reality of the difficult conditions the state was facing in securing its fuel, petroleum, and gas needs.
Energy Sector and Infrastructure Development
The dialogue session reviewed the path taken by the state in the energy sector over the past years, with a focus on the boom in infrastructure. Discussions included strengthening the national electricity transmission grid to increase its capacity to accommodate renewable sources, and developing distribution networks to meet developmental needs. Efforts made to halt the decline in natural gas production and work to restore growth rates were also addressed, alongside improving liquefied natural gas (LNG) reception capabilities to meet local market requirements.
Geopolitical Impacts on Energy Supplies
Attendees discussed the pressures imposed by regional and global geopolitical unrest on the energy sector, and the resulting supply chain crises that form additional burdens on the national economy. Participants emphasized the measures being implemented to mitigate these repercussions and ensure energy supplies sustainably. The session was attended by Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, and a number of relevant ministers, including Minister of Electricity Dr. Mahmoud Esmat, Minister of Petroleum Eng. Karim Badawi, and Minister of Finance Ahmed Kouchouk, in addition to a group of specialized energy experts.
