Egypt and Saudi Arabia’s joint power grid will start operating in May-June 2025, Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly said. The joint power grid cost $1.8 billion and will generate over 3,000 megawatts of electricity.
Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly emphasized the significance of the project during a weekly press conference, reaffirming the government’s dedication to advancing renewable energy initiatives and the vital role of joint investments in the industrial sector.
“The first stage of the Egyptian-Saudi power grid will be put into operation next May-June,” Madbouly told reporters on Wednesday.
“The project will have a capacity of 1,500 megawatts and facilitate energy exchange between both countries,” Madbouly said.
“It will be a major milestone, with a total capacity of 3,000 megawatts, which will surpass the total regional energy capacity of GCC countries.”
Madbouly expressed his approval of the newly signed agreement establishing the Egyptian-Saudi Supreme Coordination Council. Led by the heads of both countries and involving ministers from each side, the council will serve as a key platform for enhancing cooperation.
“This council is a crucial mechanism for comprehensive high-level coordination,” Madbouly said. “It will play a key role in strengthening strategic ties between both nations and fostering a significant leap in relations.”
The summit also witnessed the signing of an agreement on mutual investment protection, designed to encourage and safeguard investments between the two nations.
“We were able to achieve this in a very short period of time,” Madbouly said, adding that the agreement will be vital in boosting Saudi investments in Egypt.
Reflecting on the summit, Madbouly underlined its importance amid the rapidly shifting dynamics in the region.
“This event conveyed crucial messages,” he said. “Discussions focused on regional developments and the need for comprehensive coordination between Egypt and Saudi Arabia to address rapid changes.”
He also underscored the pivotal role both nations play as cornerstones of the Arab and Islamic world, with considerable influence on the region’s trajectory.
In addition to regional developments, the discussions tackled specific challenges, particularly the conflicts in Gaza and southern Lebanon.
“Both Egypt and Saudi Arabia share a unified vision regarding these crises, emphasizing the need for joint efforts to prevent the spread of conflict and facilitate peaceful resolutions,” Madbouly said.
Beyond the agreements, he highlighted Egypt’s proactive stance in preparing for various regional scenarios, ensuring that the country’s priorities remain focused on its citizens’ welfare.
“We are putting all possible scenarios in place,” he said. “The Egyptian state will not engage in war unless its borders or national assets are directly threatened.”
He clarified that the government’s approach is driven by a commitment to transparency and accountability, rather than fear.
Madbouly also provided an update on the national economy, celebrating the successful completion of the first phase of the Egyptian-Saudi electricity interconnection project, set to be operational by mid-2024.
He also shared progress on the Grand Egyptian Museum, whose trial operations will soon begin. Closely overseen by President El-Sisi, the museum is expected to become a global cultural landmark, showcasing Egypt’s rich heritage.
“The museum will contribute to attracting a significant influx of foreign tourists once fully operational,” Madbouly said.
He concluded by calling on Egyptians to remain vigilant and united amid the unprecedented challenges in the region, reassuring the nation that Egypt would continue to serve as a pillar of stability and a safe haven for its people.