Cairo: Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov have reinforced their commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership between Egypt and Russia. This collaboration aligns with the directives of President Abdel Fattah El Sisi and Russian President Vladimir Putin, aiming to expand bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors.According to State Information Service Egypt, a recent phone call between the two ministers focused on enhancing bilateral relations and addressing regional and international issues of mutual interest. Both ministers emphasized the importance of advancing economic, trade, and investment ties between the two nations.A significant highlight of their discussion was the ongoing collaboration on the El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant project, especially following the installation of the reactor pressure vessel for the plant's second nuclear unit. This project is considered a vital strategic init iative reflecting the depth of the Egyptian-Russian partnership. They also discussed progress in other strategic projects, notably the Russian Industrial Zone in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, and stressed the importance of expediting the procedures to activate and operationalize the zone.Additionally, Abdelatty expressed support for Russia's Federal Air Transport Agency's decision to establish direct air routes from Russia to Alexandria and Alamein International Airports. This development is expected to enhance tourism and foster closer people-to-people ties by opening new destinations for Russian tourists along Egypt's Mediterranean coast.The ministers also exchanged views on regional issues, including developments in the Middle East. They discussed a joint Iranian-Omani proposal to set up a temporary maritime corridor in the Strait of Hormuz. Abdelatty detailed Egypt's efforts to engage with various parties to de-escalate tensions and promote the implementation of the US-Iran memorandum of understanding , aiming for sustainable agreements that bolster regional security and stability.Furthermore, Abdelatty briefed Lavrov on Egypt's stance regarding the Palestinian issue, noting Egypt's recent hosting of meetings and ongoing dialogue with relevant parties to de-escalate tensions and uphold commitments under the US President's plan. He urged Israel to adhere to its commitments and halt actions that undermine peace prospects.The Egyptian Foreign Minister also addressed the Russia-Ukraine crisis, reiterating Egypt's support for a diplomatic resolution to the conflict, which would contribute to ending hostilities and promoting security and stability.