Monday, 25 May 2026
Egypt, Russia strengthen strategic ties in Cairo talks
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty hosted Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Cairo on Friday for bilateral talks on the sidelines of the Second Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum.
The ministers expressed pride in the close strategic partnership between the two nations, highlighting growing momentum in political and economic relations. They committed to advancing key joint projects, including the El-Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant and the Russian Industrial Zone in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, aimed at boosting Russian investments in Egypt and expanding cooperation.
Abdelatty showcased Egypt's promising investment opportunities, particularly in localizing industry and technology transfer, emphasizing a favorable environment in sectors like energy, tourism, transport, and logistics. The two sides also agreed to enhance tourism through increased direct flights.
On regional issues, the ministers discussed recent developments in Gaza. Abdelatty outlined Egypt's efforts to support stability, implement the Sharm El-Sheikh peace agreement, ensure humanitarian aid delivery, and advance the agreement's second phase. He presented Egypt's vision for the transitional period, stressing the need for an international stability force, a Palestinian technocrat committee in Gaza to pave the way for Palestinian Authority return, early recovery, and reconstruction.
Abdelatty reiterated Egypt's rejection of measures separating the West Bank and Gaza or undermining the two-state solution, calling on the international community to halt escalation in the West Bank and settler attacks on Palestinian civilians, while condemning settlement expansion.
Regarding Sudan, Abdelatty expressed grave concern over ongoing escalation and civilian violations, detailing Egypt's efforts within the Quadruple Mechanism for a humanitarian truce leading to ceasefire, safe corridors, and protection for Sudanese civilians. He reaffirmed Egypt's stance on preserving Sudan's unity and territorial integrity, rejecting any secession, and supporting state institutions, noting "red lines" directly impacting Egyptian national security.
The talks also covered Lebanon and Syria, with Egypt reaffirming support for their unity, sovereignty, security, and stability, while calling for respect of Syrian territorial integrity and a comprehensive political process meeting Syrian aspirations.
On Iran's nuclear file, Abdelatty emphasized continued efforts to de-escalate, build trust, and create conditions for diplomatic solutions and renewed dialogue toward a comprehensive agreement benefiting all parties and regional stability. Regarding Ukraine, Abdelatty reiterated Egypt's commitment to peaceful settlements through dialogue and diplomacy, expressing readiness to contribute to resolution efforts.
Lavrov conveyed greetings from President Vladimir Putin to President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, praising the strategic partnership and Egypt's role in promoting regional peace and stability. He stressed the importance of ongoing consultation and coordination on mutual issues, looking forward to deeper cooperation serving both nations.
The meeting underscores robust Egypt-Russia ties as Cairo hosts the Russia-Africa forum, preparing for the third Russia-Africa Summit in 2026.