Egypt is renewing efforts to position itself as a natural gas supplier to Europe, with Greece highlighted as a gateway for transporting Egyptian liquefied natural gas (LNG) to European markets. The approach was discussed at the East Mediterranean Gas Forum (EMGF) in Washington. Egyptian Petroleum and Mineral Resources Minister Karim Badawi said the focus should be on strengthening energy links between the Eastern Mediterranean and Europe.
Greece proposed as transit hub for Egyptian LNG
Under the concept promoted by Egypt, Greece would function as a strategic transit hub for LNG movements. The plan is designed to allow shipments to reach Central and Southeastern Europe through the region’s developing Vertical Corridor infrastructure. Badawi’s remarks at the EMGF linked the proposal to broader connectivity between the Eastern Mediterranean and European demand centers.
Egypt’s push is tied to changes in its domestic gas balance after a difficult period for the sector. The challenges included declining production, rising domestic consumption, and economic pressures that led to IMF-backed support measures in 2022. During that time, Egypt shifted from being an LNG exporter to a net importer of liquefied gas.
Recovery drivers and LNG export policy changes
Recent developments have improved expectations for Egypt’s gas outlook. New hydrocarbon discoveries are expected to gradually increase domestic production, including projects led by Eni. Alongside discovery activity, Cairo has been working to attract foreign investment into its energy sector.
Cairo has also introduced policies that allow international energy companies to export part of their output as LNG. The stated purpose is to help recover outstanding payments and sustain investment activity. Energean received $125 million during the first quarter of 2026 as part of debt repayments.
EMGF reconvenes with regional participants
The EMGF meeting also addressed regional energy cooperation dynamics beyond LNG logistics. The forum reconvened after a three-year hiatus in Washington and included representatives from Greece, Cyprus, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Italy, France, the European Union, the United States, the World Bank, and the State of Palestine. It was the first time since 2023 that Israeli and Palestinian representatives took part in the same forum discussions.
No major agreements were announced at the gathering. Turkey was not part of the EMGF framework and continued to advocate for a greater role in approving regional energy projects. Its position remains at odds with the forum’s existing cooperative structure.
