The historic energy partnership between Cairo and Moscow is entering a sophisticated new era, transitioning from the foundational legacy of the Aswan High Dam to the high-tech frontier of the El-Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant (NPP). Nikolai Shulginov, Chairman of the Energy Committee of the Russian State Duma, emphasized that this relationship is anchored in a Treaty of Strategic Cooperation, designed to withstand external geopolitical pressures while fostering industrial growth through the Russian Industrial Zone (RIZ) in the Suez Canal Economic Zone and the localization of advanced nuclear technologies.
Central to this dialogue is the rapid, record-breaking progress at the El-Dabaa site. Shulginov confirmed that 2025 marked a year of "exceeding contractual deadlines," culminating in the landmark installation of the first reactor vessel. With the first nuclear fuel delivery slated for 2027 and full power generation expected by 2028, the project is set to provide 10 percent of Egypt’s energy needs, aligning perfectly with the ambitious and visionary "Egypt Vision 2030."
Beyond heavy industry, Shulginov revealed a broadening horizon for bilateral ties, spanning nuclear medicine, water desalination, and green energy storage. His insights offer a comprehensive look at how both nations are synchronizing their legislative and technical expertise to transform Egypt into a dominant regional energy hub for decades to come.
Ahram Online (AO): Can you share the goals and outcomes of your recent visit to Egypt? What were the key discussions and agreements reached?
Nikolai Shulginov (NS): The primary objective was to witness the monumental progress at the El-Dabaa NPP construction site and engage in high-level discussions with Egyptian project management and authorities. I held highly constructive meetings with the Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, Mahmoud Esmat, and the Chairman of the Energy and Environment Committee of the House of Representatives, Tarek El Molla. We discussed a wide range of issues regarding bilateral energy cooperation and regulatory support. I characterize these meetings as exceptionally fruitful, reflecting our shared commitment to excellence.
(AO): What are the latest developments in energy cooperation between Russia and Egypt? Are there any new projects or initiatives?
NS: Our mutual cooperation is the cornerstone of our bilateral trade and economic relations. This partnership will continue to flourish, unhindered by any attempts to limit it by third parties. Our relations are built upon the Treaty on Strategic Cooperation, grounded in principles of equality and deep mutual respect—consistent with the finest traditions of our long-standing interstate relations, as frequently emphasized by our President.
Historically, the Soviet-Egyptian partnership peaked with the Aswan High Dam, which 50 years ago granted Egypt total energy independence and fueled the development of industrial giants like the Egyptian Aluminum Plant and the Helwan Metallurgical Plant.
Today, we are witnessing a new industrial miracle with the El-Dabaa NPP. Alongside our Egyptian friends, we are building a world-class atomic industry from the ground up. This includes state-of-the-art infrastructure that will provide Egypt with a reliable energy supply while localizing advanced technologies and creating a new generation of Egyptian nuclear specialists.
Furthermore, Egypt’s rise as a regional energy hub is inevitable. Your nation's advantageous geographical location, robust oil and gas infrastructure, and capacity for LNG production—bolstered by visionary government policies—make Egypt an irresistible partner for international cooperation. Russia stands as a reliable, long-term ally, ready to work with our Egyptian counterparts for decades. Additionally, the Russian Industrial Zone in the Suez Canal Economic Zone holds immense potential, further stabilizing Egyptian-Russian relations as the most secure in the region.
(AO): Can you provide an update on the status of the El-Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant? How does it integrate into Egypt's national strategy?
NS: The progress is nothing short of extraordinary. In 2025, all key project activities were completed, with most exceeding contractual deadlines. A historic milestone was reached in November with the installation of the reactor vessel for the first unit, an event attended by the presidents of both nations.
Currently, approximately 25,000 workers are active at the site. By 2027, the delivery of nuclear fuel will mark the official birth of a full-fledged nuclear power plant in Egypt, with the first unit launching in 2028. This project will provide 10 percent of the country's energy consumption, a vital step toward enhancing Egypt's energy security amidst global market instability. This aligns seamlessly with "Egypt Vision 2030" and confirms the profound wisdom of the Egyptian government’s decision to resume its peaceful nuclear programme. Russia will provide support throughout the entire lifecycle, offering a significant advantage over Western competitors.
(AO): How do the parliamentary energy committees of Russia and Egypt collaborate?
NS: As strategic partners, our parliaments must mirror the high level of cooperation set by our Presidents. There is immense potential for inter-committee collaboration, particularly in developing the legal frameworks necessary for a safe nuclear industry. Our experience in nuclear legislation is highly regarded by the IAEA, and we are proud to offer our framework as a reference point for Egypt as it joins the elite "nuclear states" club. Given that our areas of responsibility—from oil and gas to digitalization—overlap significantly, I am confident we will continue to share invaluable expertise to refine energy legislation.
(AO): How does Russia view its role in supporting Egypt's transition to green energy?
NS: In 2025, Egypt demonstrated the highest growth rate of renewable energy capacity in the MENA region. Egypt possesses some of the world's best conditions for green energy, including exceptional solar radiation and wind power. Your country’s strategy to increase the share of renewables to 42 percent by 2030 is visionary.
Russia, having one of the lowest-carbon energy balances globally, has much to share. We are pursuing ambitious goals to increase nuclear generation to 25 percent by 2042 and are pioneers in electricity storage systems. The potential for cooperation in integrating renewables into the modern energy grid is exceptionally high, and we look forward to contributing to Egypt's green future.
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