Why was Mark Antony's alliance with Cleopatra politically useful to both rulers?

The alliance between Mark Antony and Cleopatra was driven by both personal affection and significant political necessity for both rulers.12

For Cleopatra, the partnership was a strategic means to restore the historical boundaries of the Ptolemaic kingdom. She sought Antony’s influence and military support to reclaim lost territories and solidify her power in the region.12

Conversely, Antony required Egypt as a vital source of wealth and supplies. These resources were essential for funding his military ambitions, particularly his planned campaign against Parthia. By establishing his headquarters in Alexandria, Antony leveraged the immense riches of the Egyptian state to sustain his position as a triumvir ruling over Rome’s eastern provinces.12