Karim Badawi, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, met with Diego Portoghese, Italy’s Eni’s Head of North Africa and Levant Region, to review the company’s exploration and production activities in Egypt and explore avenues for strengthening bilateral cooperation, according to a statement by the Ministry.

During the meeting, Badawi commended the progress observed during his recent visit to the Meleiha fields in the Western Desert, in which Eni is a primary partner in the exploration, development, and production of hydrocarbons within the Meleiha concession.

Badawi further praised the progress in the ongoing intensive operations in Abu Madi field in the Nile Delta, in which Eni is a partner, underscoring tangible advances in Eni’s exploration and production activities. He stressed the importance of overcoming challenges and ensuring continuous coordination.

Meanwhile, Portoghese highlighted the steady progress of exploration and drilling operations, noting that activities will be further intensified in the coming period. He emphasized that the effort will be supported by advanced technical capabilities and skilled personnel, aimed at meeting the rising domestic demand, particularly during the summer months.

Eni also leads production from major assets like the Zohr field offshore, Nooros, and Baltim W in the Mediterranean, alongside operations at the Damietta LNG plant. These initiatives contribute around 40% of Egypt’s natural gas output and support regional energy exports.