Petroleum Minister Tareq El Molla held talks with US Senator Ted Cruz on means of promoting partnership with East Mediterranean countries in the natural gas field in light of Egypt's crucial role as a regional gas hub. 

This came during his current visit to Washington, during which he held talks with US officials and companies' representatives to discuss strengthening cooperation between the two countries in the energy domain.

During the meeting, El Molla reviewed the Egyptian efforts and initiatives during the past year in cooperation with the countries of the region to establish an East Mediterranean Gas Forum (EMGF) to be an international organization.

The forum was established in January 2019, with seven energy ministers deciding on July 25 in Cairo that they would form a committee to elevate the forum to the level of an international organization.

El Molla also held talks with the President at Ranson Inspection Services, LLC, Chad Ranson, on boosting partnership with the Egyptian petroleum companies to manufacture equipment in Egypt, particularly in light of Egypt's success in the petroleum sector over the past period.