In a high-level diplomatic engagement reflecting the growing depth of bilateral ties, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty met with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in Moscow on Friday to explore avenues for expanding cooperation and to exchange views on pressing regional and global developments.
The talks, held during Abdelatty’s official visit to the Russian capital, underscored the strategic partnership between Egypt and Russia, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to advancing cooperation across economic, political, and security domains.
Central to the discussions was the acceleration of joint flagship projects, including the Russian Industrial Zone in the Suez Canal Economic Zone and the construction of the El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant, both seen as pillars of long-term economic collaboration.
Abdelatty praised progress achieved thus far and called for expedited implementation, alongside increased Russian investment in priority sectors such as pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, automotive manufacturing, and chemical industries. He also emphasized Egypt’s efforts to enhance its investment climate through regulatory reforms, transparency measures, and facilitation of private sector participation.
The Egyptian minister further highlighted the importance of sustaining and expanding cooperation in food security, particularly imports of Russian grain, oils, and wheat, while proposing the establishment of a logistics hub for grain distribution with Russian participation.
In the multilateral arena, Abdelatty expressed Cairo’s interest in strengthening economic coordination with Moscow within the framework of BRICS. He stressed the need for increased concessional financing through the New Development Bank and called for joint efforts to reform global financial and debt systems in favor of developing economies.
Tourism also featured prominently in the talks, with Egypt noting a marked increase in Russian visitors. Abdelatty pointed to opportunities to expand air connectivity and promote emerging destinations along Egypt’s Mediterranean north coast, particularly through the readiness of Alamein and Alexandria airports.
The ministers additionally explored prospects for enhanced cooperation in healthcare and pharmaceuticals, including potential localization of Russian drug manufacturing in Egypt and collaboration in vaccine production and digital health technologies.
Beyond bilateral ties, the meeting addressed a wide array of regional issues. Abdelatty outlined Egypt’s diplomatic efforts to contain escalating tensions in the region, emphasizing that dialogue remains the most viable path to stability.
Discussions also covered developments in the Horn of Africa, with Egypt reiterating support for stability in Somalia and affirming that governance of the Red Sea should remain the exclusive responsibility of littoral states.
On water security, Cairo reaffirmed that the issue represents an existential priority, calling for adherence to international law in managing Nile Basin resources and rejecting unilateral actions.
Turning to Sudan, Abdelatty stressed the importance of preserving the country’s unity and institutions, advocating for a Sudanese-led political process and an immediate humanitarian truce to pave the way for a sustainable ceasefire.
In Libya, Egypt reiterated its longstanding support for a unified political settlement leading to simultaneous presidential and parliamentary elections.
The ministers also exchanged views on the ongoing war in Ukraine, with Egypt reaffirming its position in favor of peaceful conflict resolution through dialogue.
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