Parliament approved three laws governing nuclear regulation and usage, Ahram Online reports.

The laws, if approved by the president, will establish two authorities to regulate the usage of nuclear power, according to the newspaper.

The vote came after a special five-hour session to consider the legislation.

The parliamentary vote came as Egypt prepares to sign contracts with Russia for the construction of a nuclear power plant at El Dabaa. The plant, upon completion, is expected to produce 4,800 megawatts (MW) of electricity.