economy upfront Bound

Egypt’s government has finalized a new multi-billion dollar contract to import natural gas from Israel, aiming to address domestic shortages that have led to rolling blackouts across the country.

A militant fuel blockade has brought much of Mali and its key trade routes to a halt, sparking shortages, shuttering schools, and disrupting daily life from Bamako to Dakar. With convoys targeted and fuel prices soaring, the region faces mounting economic and security risks.

Libya’s energy sector is gaining momentum as Sonatrach and other major players resume exploration and drilling across the Ghadames Basin. Recent activity includes Sonatrach’s return after a decade-long halt, new exploratory wells by the National Oil Corporation, and successful deep-layer production tests by Zueitina Oil Company.

The EU’s €7.4 billion package to Egypt marks Europe’s largest financial commitment to any non‑EU partner, aimed at stabilizing Cairo’s economy but adding to its already heavy debt load, now nearing 90 percent of GDP. The deal underscores Egypt’s strategic value to Europe amid regional turmoil and migration pressures.