CAIRO, August 9, 2018 - Petroleum Minister Tarek el-Mulla discussed with Jordanian Minister of Energy Hala Zawati the progress of joint strategic projects aimed at providing diversified sources of energy, especially natural gas, to meet the needs of their two countries. The two ministers also discussed ways to benefit from the expertise and capabilities of the Egyptian firms to establish the infrastructure needed to supply natural gas to the Jordanian cities. During the talks, several agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed by the natural gas companies of both countries, for the operation and maintenance of pipelines and oil and gas distribution networks, according to a statement issued by the Petroleum Ministry on Thursday. During the meeting, Minister el-Mulla said it was important to increase co-operation, in the light of the unique ties binding the two countries. He noted that the Egyptian gas firms entering the Jordanian market was a good move that would benefit both countries. Minister Zawati confirmed that joint ventures would soon be given impetus. She added that these projects would lay the groundwork for promoting economic relations, especially since energy was a cornerstone of development. She appreciated the unique expertise of the Egyptian petroleum companies and expressed appreciation of Egypt's tangible efforts to develop its partnership with Jordan.