Egypt Energy Show concludes amid global energy concerns

The Egypt Energy Show 2026 opened in Cairo on 30 March with a strong call for international cooperation, as global leaders gathered to address mounting challenges facing the energy sector.

In a keynote message, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi urged governments and industry stakeholders to work together in response to ongoing geopolitical instability and supply disruptions.

"The International Energy Agency has indicated that this may be one of the most severe energy crises in modern history - indeed, possibly one of the most significant crises the modern world has faced. This is not a single shock, but a double shock: a supply shock and a price shock. We are facing a significant reduction in supply - estimated at around 20-25%. Given the grave consequences of continued conflict […] it is our collective responsibility to work toward ending such crises, as cooperation is the key to overcoming the current challenges facing the energy sector."

The theme of collaboration was echoed by global policymakers and energy leaders attending the opening ceremony. Nikos Christodoulides, President of Cyprus, highlighted the increasing importance of regional partnerships in maintaining energy stability.

"A regional crisis continues to threaten stability and reshape the global energy landscape. It has become abundantly clear that energy security is no longer merely an economic concern - it is fundamentally a political imperative, intrinsically linked to regional and international stability. In this context, we must strengthen our readiness to respond to disruptions in energy flows and adapt effectively to the rapidly evolving global reality."

Addressing global concerns

Representatives from Europe also stressed the urgency of balancing energy security with long-term sustainability goals. Ditte Juul Jørgensen, Director General of Energy, European Commission, underlined the need for cross-border collaboration.

"No one can fully capture the scale of uncertainty and instability that the Middle East has witnessed. This situation has underscored the urgent need to transition to cleaner energy and to build sustainable domestic energy systems that ensure access to clean and reliable energy. For Europe, Egypt is a valued partner in this effort, and we must seize this opportunity not only to address current challenges but also to build a shared future defined by stability, resilience, sustainability, transparency, and integrity."

Regional dynamics were also addressed by Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, who emphasised the Gulf’s stabilising role.

"Against the backdrop of Iranian aggression toward GCC states and the consequent threat to energy security in this vital region, this conference is taking place at a pivotal moment. The GCC countries play a critical role in stabilising international markets through prudent production policies and effective coordination that maintain a delicate balance between supply and demand and shield the global economy from severe volatility."

Meanwhile, the country's Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Karim Badawi, stressed the importance of partnerships.

"This year's conference carries exceptional significance, convening at a critical juncture marked by escalating challenges and shifts within our region. In this context, effective partnerships are no longer an option, but an absolute necessity. Collective action has become the cornerstone for enhancing the resilience and sustainability of global supply chains."

The event also saw Egypt and Cyprus sign agreements to process Cypriot gas through Egyptian facilities, reinforcing regional cooperation. With more than 50,000 attendees, 500 exhibitors and over 350 speakers, the exhibition highlights innovation, including a new AI-focused hub aimed at advancing energy solutions.