Ashraf AboArafe
Aleksey Tevanyan, Russia’s Trade Representative in Egypt, affirmed that Russian companies are carefully exploring opportunities to localize their industries in Egypt—both to meet the demands of the local market and to expand exports to other regions.
In remarks to the Middle East News Agency on Monday, Tevanyan noted that a high-level Russian government delegation, led by Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk, met with Egyptian Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly during its recent visit to Cairo. The talks covered a wide range of bilateral issues, with a particular focus on trade and economic cooperation. Direct discussions were also held between Russian government officials and their Egyptian counterparts.
The delegation—comprising more than 30 Russian companies spanning vital sectors from transport to pharmaceuticals and petrochemicals—visited the Ain Sokhna area. The tour, organized by Russia’s Ministry of Industry and Trade with support from the General Authority of the Suez Canal Economic Zone and Egypt’s Trade Representation Authority, included inspections of the proposed Russian Industrial Zone, surrounding infrastructure, the port, and existing factories. The group also took part in a business forum hosted at the Federation of Egyptian Industries, aimed at opening channels of cooperation and discussing joint projects.
Tevanyan underlined that the Russian Industrial Zone project is approaching a decisive phase, with regulatory procedures completed and a lease signed for 50 hectares of land—paving the way for construction to begin soon.
He expressed confidence that Egypt will soon see the establishment of new industrial enterprises that will create jobs, reduce dependence on imports, and boost Egyptian exports, especially to countries with which Cairo has signed free trade agreements.
Tevanyan stressed that the Russian delegation’s visit is a clear sign that industrial cooperation between Cairo and Moscow is entering a new stage, poised to play a greater role in strengthening the long-term strategic partnership between the two nations. Further visits by Russian companies are expected in the near future to analyze the technical requirements and prepare for the practical implementation of upcoming projects.
