Regional News
Beirut and Cairo in energy pact
By Ferry Biedermann - Financial Times
Aug 18, 2008 - 2:59:40 AM

Egypt has agreed to supply Lebanon with electricity and natural gas to help alleviate the country's chronic energy shortage. The deal is seen as a sign of Egyptian support for the national unity government of Fouad Siniora, Lebanon's prime minister, who held talks with Hosni Mubarak, Egypt's president, in Alexandria at the weekend. Mr Siniora said energy ministers from both countries would hold meetings over the next few days to begin drafting agreements. Lebanon's energy minister has said that his country will draw 200MW of electricity from Egypt, starting within months. The power will be delivered to Lebanon through the linked grids of Jordan and Syria.