Sahar Ragab
In a visit underscoring the growing depth of Russian-Egyptian relations, Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo on Monday. The two sides discussed international and regional security, developments in the Middle East, nuclear energy cooperation, and expanding military, intelligence, and economic ties.
Shoigu reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to steadily strengthening bilateral trade and economic relations, stressing that such “mutually beneficial relations should not be subject to external influence.”
The Russian official highlighted the ongoing success of major infrastructure projects, notably the construction of Egypt’s first nuclear power plant at El-Dabaa, noting that Rosatom, Russia’s state nuclear corporation, has begun comprehensive construction of all reactor buildings in partnership with Egyptian counterparts.
Shoigu also expressed Russia’s interest in further advancing military and technical cooperation with Egypt, including the implementation of existing contracts and the conclusion of new ones.
On the economic front, Shoigu announced the launch of the Russian Industrial Zone in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, following the completion of the necessary legal framework. “The project is now moving into its on-site implementation phase,” he stated.
He added that promising areas for expanding cooperation include pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, mineral fertilizers, automobile manufacturing, and food processing industries—sectors viewed as key engines for strengthening bilateral ties.
Addressing regional issues, Shoigu emphasized that a comprehensive settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on international law remains the only viable path toward lasting peace in the Middle East. He praised Cairo’s mediation efforts, particularly regarding the situation in Gaza.
Shoigu also expressed Moscow’s appreciation for Egypt’s balanced and responsible stance on the Ukraine crisis, as well as President El-Sisi’s initiatives to promote a peaceful resolution.
He underlined the importance of maintaining close communication between defense ministries, law enforcement agencies, and intelligence services of both countries. Shoigu further invited Egyptian experts to attend the International Security Forum, scheduled to be held in Moscow in May 2026.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Shoigu conveyed President Vladimir Putin’s greetings to President El-Sisi, reaffirming Russia’s determination to further enhance its strategic partnership with Egypt across all sectors.
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