Greece’s Minister of Shipping and Insular Policy, Vasilis Kikilias, recently visited Cairo, and his trip highlights the strengthening ties between Greece and Egypt in the realms of shipping, energy, and infrastructure.
During the TransMEA 2025 international transport conference, Kikilias participated in a ministerial panel that convened key figures from across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia. His discussions centred around enhancing cooperation in shipping and ports, as well as the broader regional transport landscape.
In a significant bilateral meeting with Kamel Al Wazir, Egypt’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry and Transport, Kikilias praised the advancements in Egypt’s transport and infrastructure sectors. The two ministers acknowledged the historical maritime links that have shaped their nations, noting that the enduring relationship is now gaining renewed momentum.
The conversation underscored Greece’s longstanding presence in Egyptian shipping and entrepreneurship, emphasising the critical role of the Greek-owned merchant fleet in international energy transport. This aspect of their relationship is increasingly pertinent, especially following the recent agreements between Greece and the United States regarding energy.
Another focal point of their discussions was the strategic significance of the Suez Canal. Greek companies have already made strides in investing in pollution-control measures and environmental technologies in the region. Moreover, plans for an electrical interconnection between Egypt and Greece are progressing, presenting additional avenues for collaboration.
Kikilias articulated these themes further during his remarks at TransMEA, stating, “Connection, cooperation and the promotion of investment and development agreements in shipping and port infrastructure will help the stability of the region, provide security and bring prosperity to our countries.” His emphasis on the need for diplomatic and economic collaboration reflects a strategic vision for both nations.
Highlighting the strength of Greece’s fleet, Kikilias pointed out the advantages it brings to both nations in terms of maritime transport, port upgrades, and infrastructure development. He reiterated the significance of forthcoming investment agreements, particularly the planned electricity cable that would link Egypt to Greece and ultimately supply the rest of the European Union.
The conference itself, featuring a diverse array of speakers, including transport ministers from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and several other nations, showcased the event’s role as a centralised platform for policy alignment and infrastructural cooperation across various regions. This year’s edition was marked by discussions on decarbonisation and digital connectivity, reflecting the evolving demands of the global shipping sector.
TransMEA has established itself as a vital venue for investment announcements and partnerships, with attendees from various sectors, including logistics and aviation. The presence of global executives further underscores the potential for significant infrastructure investments and collaboration in the maritime domain.
As the conference draws to a close, Kikilias’ presence in Cairo underscores Greece’s commitment to strengthening its role in the Eastern Mediterranean, particularly as maritime transport and energy routes become increasingly interconnected. The conversations and agreements reached during this event could pave the way for a new era of collaboration between Greece and Egypt, ultimately benefitting their economies and enhancing regional stability.
