What is clear is that Moscow and Cairo’s mutual understanding of the importance and position of each other, along with the provision of common strategic, economic, security, and military perspectives, has led to the current trend of increasing relations.

Relations between Egypt and Russia began in 1943 between the Egyptian government and the Soviet government, and relations developed after the 1952 revolution. Therefore, the Soviet Union acted as the main protector and defender of Egypt, and Egypt witnessed an unprecedented industrial renaissance.

During the Cold War, relations were exceptionally good. Egypt was also at the forefront of the countries that established diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation in 1991, and political relations developed at the level of heads of state, government, and parliamentary levels.

Russia’s interest in Egypt became more evident during the developments of January 25, 2011, and the overthrow of the Muslim Brotherhood in 2013, and the dimensions of relations expanded during the presidency of Abd el-Fattah Al-Sisi.

Political and geopolitical:

The latest Russian foreign policy concept for 2023 highlights Egypt’s role as a key country in the Islamic world. Egyptian elites also see Russia as a key ally in foreign policy.

Establishing good relations with Moscow is one of the important pillars of Egyptian foreign policy and helps Cairo balance its relations with major powers, especially the United States and the European Union.

From this perspective, relations with Moscow help diversify Cairo’s international relations and open up avenues for cooperation and partnership with many countries worldwide, enhance Egyptian diplomacy’s credibility, and prevent blackmail and overt interference in Egypt’s internal affairs. Egypt, trying to put aside unilateralism in its foreign policy, thought about expanding relations with Moscow. The rise of Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi in Egypt was an important opportunity to strengthen relations between Moscow and Cairo, and both sides welcomed a new relationship.

The scope of cooperation between the two countries has increased since 2013, and meetings of leaders and officials such as the defense and foreign ministers have increased the proximity of Russia and Egypt.

Russia is politically and strategically interested in Africa and Egypt. Russia considers the continent’s players as the key partners in the future world order. Therefore, Moscow is directing its efforts........

© New Eastern Outlook