Cairo: Cyprus’ Minister of Energy, Commerce, and Industry, George Papanastasiou, is travelling to Cairo on Sunday to participate in the EGYPES 2025 energy conference and to sign key agreements on the development of the “Aphrodite” gas field and hydrocarbon discoveries in Block 6 of Cyprus’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
According to Cyprus News Agency, on Monday, February 17, Papanastasiou will sign, on behalf of the Republic of Cyprus, a Memorandum of Understanding between Cyprus, Egypt, and the license holders (Chevron Cyprus Limited, NewMed Energy LP, and BG Cyprus Limited) for the development of the Aphrodite gas field. Additionally, he will sign a Host Government Agreement between Cyprus, Egypt, and the license holders (Eni Cyprus Limited and TotalEnergies EP Cyprus B.V.) to exploit Block 6 hydrocarbons.
The signing ceremonies will take place on the sidelines of EGYPES 2025 in the presence of the Presidents of Cyprus and Egypt, Nikos Christodoulides and Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, as well as Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister, Matteo Salvini. Ahead of the event, bilateral talks between Cypriot and Egyptian delegations, led by the two Presidents, will be held.
On Sunday evening, Minister Papanastasiou will deliver remarks at an event organised by the East Mediterranean Gas Forum (EMGF) to introduce the EmpowerMed Women Network. The initiative aims to promote gender equality and diversity in the energy sector while enhancing women’s representation in decision-making roles. Cyprus’ Commissioner for Gender Equality, Josie Christodoulou, who will also participate, has been appointed head of the network’s Executive Committee for “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.”
During EGYPES 2025, Minister Papanastasiou will participate in a Ministerial Roundtable discussion on Monday afternoon focused on “Approaches to Energy Security and Industrial Competitiveness.” He is also scheduled to meet with energy companies on Monday and Tuesday.
The minister is expected to return to Cyprus on Wednesday, February 19.