Cairo: Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty held talks in Cairo with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on enhancing bilateral ties and addressing regional and international issues of mutual concern.
According to State Information Service Egypt, the two diplomats praised the growing momentum in Egyptian-Russian relations, particularly in political and economic areas.
Spokesman for the Foreign Ministry Tamim Khallaf stated that both foreign ministers stressed the importance of advancing ongoing cooperation projects, such as the El Dabaa nuclear power plant and the Russian Industrial Zone in the Suez Canal Economic Zone. They also discussed enhancing tourism collaboration by increasing the number of direct flights between Egypt and Russia.
Abdelatty outlined Egypt's promising investment opportunities, particularly in the state's strategy to localize industry and transfer modern technology. He highlighted the favorable investment climate in Egypt, especially in the energy, tourism, transport, and logistics sectors, which could elevate economic and trade relations between the two countries.
The talks also covered regional developments, including the situation in the Gaza Strip. Abdelatty explained Egypt's efforts to support stability and de-escalation in the region, emphasizing the implementation of the Sharm El-Sheikh peace agreement and the delivery of humanitarian aid. He also stressed the importance of empowering an international stabilization force and forming a Palestinian technocratic committee in Gaza as part of Egypt's vision for the transitional phase.
Abdelatty reiterated Egypt's rejection of any measures that would entrench separation between the West Bank and Gaza. He called on the international community to help halt escalation in the West Bank and settler attacks against Palestinian civilians, condemning settlement expansion in the region.
The ministers also reviewed developments in Sudan, with Abdelatty expressing concern over the ongoing escalation and violations against civilians. He emphasized Egypt's efforts within the Quartet mechanism to reach a humanitarian truce and ensure safe humanitarian corridors and shelters for Sudanese civilians, supporting Sudan's unity and territorial integrity.
Discussions extended to Lebanon and Syria, where Abdelatty reaffirmed Egypt's support for Lebanon's unity and stability. Concerning Syria, he urged for a comprehensive political process that respects the country's unity and territorial integrity.
The two ministers also exchanged views on the Iranian nuclear issue, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic solutions and resuming dialogue to achieve regional security and stability. Abdelatty affirmed the need for a comprehensive agreement that considers all parties' interests.
Finally, the two sides addressed the Ukraine crisis, with Abdelatty supporting peaceful settlements through dialogue and expressing Egypt's readiness to contribute to resolving the crisis. Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov conveyed President Vladimir Putin's greetings to President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, appreciating Egypt's strategic partnership and regional role. Lavrov emphasized the importance of continued bilateral consultation and coordination on mutual interests, aiming to strengthen cooperation and achieve shared goals.