The International Energy Agency (IEA) and Egypt have taken a significant step towards enhancing collaboration on critical energy and climate issues by signing their first-ever joint work program. The agreement outlines their commitment to work closely on key strategic priorities, including addressing methane emissions from fossil fuel usage, advancing renewable energy adoption, and promoting hydrogen production.
The signing took place at the IEA’s headquarters in Paris and followed discussions between IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol, Egypt’s Minister for Petroleum and Mineral Resources Tarek El-Molla, and Egypt’s Ambassador to France Alaa Youssef. During the meeting, they also explored the regional challenges influenced by current geopolitical tensions and their potential impact on global energy markets.
Minister El-Molla and Dr Birol had previously initiated discussions to strengthen institutional ties when Egypt became an Association country of the IEA in February 2022. The newly established two-year joint work program will focus on Egypt’s short- and long-term energy priorities, with a strong emphasis on clean energy transitions, energy security, and climate resilience. Specific areas of collaboration outlined in the program include emissions reduction in oil and gas activities, hydrogen development, renewable energy deployment, and cooperation on data and statistics.
Dr. Birol expressed his enthusiasm about the expanded cooperation with Egypt, highlighting the country’s importance as a member of the IEA Family. He emphasized the shared commitment to addressing critical energy security and climate-related challenges. Dr. Birol added, “We are eager to explore new areas of cooperation with Egypt as the country accelerates its energy transition while ensuring affordable and reliable energy supplies.”
Minister El-Molla underscored the global demand for secure, affordable, and sustainable energy supplies. He noted Egypt’s unique position as a producer and exporter of natural gas, recognized as one of the cleanest hydrocarbon fuels. Egypt is poised to play a significant role in the global energy transition, particularly through the promotion of renewable energy. Minister El-Molla expressed their anticipation to collaborate actively with the IEA to leverage the organization’s knowledge and expertise in supporting a just and orderly energy transition.
The priorities outlined in the joint work program reinforce Egypt’s commitment to reducing emissions. The country recently joined the Global Methane Pledge and endorsed the Zero Routine Flaring by 2030 Initiative, further demonstrating its dedication to emissions reduction and sustainable energy practices.
The IEA’s Association framework enables close collaboration with partner countries, facilitating the sharing of analysis, data, and best practices. Established in 2015, the framework includes other Association countries such as Argentina, Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Morocco, Singapore, Senegal, South Africa, Thailand, and now, Egypt. The IEA Family comprises 31 Members, 13 Associations, and 4 Accession countries.
This partnership between the IEA and Egypt marks a significant milestone in addressing pressing energy challenges and fostering a sustainable energy future.
