In the aim of “boosting strategic relations” between the two countries, the Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi started his three-day visit to Russia yesterday for talks with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.
“The president’s visit to Russia and his meeting with Putin comes in the framework of the distinguished relations between the two countries,” according to a statement by The Cairo Post.
“The visit will give an opportunity to enhance cooperation with Russia in various fields, particularly economically.”
According to the statement, Sisi intends to hold talks with senior Russian officials and heads of Russian companies during the visit.
The visit is Sisi’s third trip to Russia since he became president.
The two countries signed a $3.5bn arms deal during a previous visit by Sisi to Russia.
Sisi and Putin announced in February that Moscow would assist Cairo in constructing Egypt’s first nuclear power plant, to be located in the city of Dabaa.
Agreements were also signed for Egypt to import Russian natural gas and for the establishment of a free trade zone in Egypt’s eastern Ataqa region.
Trade volume between Egypt and Russia grew 103 per cent in the past six months, according to Egypt’s Central Bank.
Trade and Industry Minister Mounir Fakhry Abdel-Nour described President Sisi’s visit to Russia as extremely important.
Several important files in the political and economic fields will be discussed during the visit, said Mr Abdel-Nour.
A Russian economic delegation will visit Egypt from 14-17 September to lay down the basis of cooperation and to sign a free trade agreement with the Egyptian side.
The joint economic committee of the two countries will convene early September to mull increasing Egyptian agricultural exports to Russia.
The minister noted that the two countries are discussing establishing a fueling station for ships that pass through the Suez Canal.
