ATHENS, Greece — Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Greek President Constantine Tassoulas announced plans on May 7, 2025, to sign a "strategic partnership" agreement aimed at enhancing political coordination and ensuring regional stability in the Eastern Mediterranean. The announcement was made during a televised meeting in Athens, underscoring the deepening ties between the two nations.

The forthcoming agreement is set to address critical issues such as migration management and energy cooperation. Both countries have reaffirmed their commitment to international law and regional peace, particularly in light of ongoing geopolitical tensions, including the war in Gaza.

President Sisi emphasized the "historical and traditional ties" between Egypt and Greece during his meeting with President Tassoulas. He is also scheduled to meet with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to further reinforce bilateral cooperation through a senior officials’ board established over a year ago.

Energy collaboration is a cornerstone of this partnership. Both nations have renewed their commitment to the EuroAfrica Interconnector project, a planned submarine power cable linking Egypt, Cyprus, and Greece. The 3,000-megawatt, 1,000-kilometer cable is expected to transmit renewable energy from North Africa to Europe, aligning with the European Union's strategy to diversify energy sources. The project, supported by the EU and estimated to cost around €4 billion, is slated to be operational within five years.

Migration management is another focal point of the agreement. The European Union has expressed concerns over migration pressures from Egypt, a country with a population of 106 million. Since 2016, Egypt has curtailed irregular migration from its north coast, but Greek islands have recently experienced a surge in arrivals from Afghanistan and Egypt. To address these challenges, the EU announced a €7.4 billion aid package for Egypt to stabilize its economy and manage migration, including support for Egypt's energy sector and border fortification.

Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis has expressed support for an Arab initiative aimed at reconstructing Gaza, contingent on the establishment of a ceasefire. He emphasized that halting hostilities and restoring humanitarian aid to civilians are top priorities. This stance aligns with Greece's commitment to regional peace and stability.

The strategic partnership between Egypt and Greece is poised to serve as a stabilizing force in the Eastern Mediterranean, addressing shared challenges and promoting peace. Enhanced cooperation in energy and trade is expected to stimulate economic development in both countries, attracting international investment and fostering regional prosperity. Joint efforts in managing migration flows could lead to more effective policies, benefiting both nations and the broader European region.

The impending strategic partnership between Egypt and Greece marks a significant step toward deeper bilateral relations and regional cooperation. By focusing on energy collaboration, migration management, and adherence to international law, both nations aim to contribute to the stability and prosperity of the Eastern Mediterranean.