Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi stated that colonialism is the primary cause of Africa's social and economic backwardness, and he urged Western nations to help the region grow.

“Africa for historical reasons was always left behind (…) and hence it is not reasonable that it continues paying the price”, the president pointed out at the inauguration of the Egypt International Petroleum Conference and Exhibition (Egyps 2022).

As a result, he urged richer countries to offer financial assistance to African countries to combat climate change and lengthen the transition time to achieve renewable energy obligations.

The cost of carrying out these plans is critical, and Africa cannot afford such expenditures, he claims.

The president reminded that half of Africa's population does not have access to energy.

The event, which is considered the largest of its type in North Africa and the Mediterranean, is attended by more than 10 ministers from the sector, as well as high-ranking delegates from numerous countries.

Delegations from the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, the International Energy Agency, the Eastern Mediterranean Gas Forum, the Union for the Mediterranean, and the African Petroleum Producers' Organization, among others, attended.