Petroleum Minister Tareq el Molla said on Tuesday that the Egyptian government is exerting strenuous efforts to upgrade the energy sector in Egypt.

The government's plan is based on improving energy efficiency and maintaining its sustainability, as well as paying dues of foreign companies working in Egypt.

The steps taken by the government resulted in reducing dues of foreign companies by half and amending petroleum agreements.

The ministry has recently inked 62 deals worth 14 billion dollars, he said, adding that 12 other agreements will be signed in the coming period.