Ashraf AboArafe
In a statement to Aldiplomasy website Arabic/English editions, Mr. Georgy Y. Borisenko, Ambassador of Russia to Egypt, highlighted that relations between the two countries date back to the 16th century, when a Russian mission first visited Egypt. However, they flourished significantly since the 1950s, with intensified political, economic, and military cooperation contributing to regional stability.
Ambassador Borisenko recalled the historic role of the Soviet Union in supporting Egypt during the Suez Crisis of 1956, defending Egypt’s right to sovereignty over the Suez Canal, and participating in the construction of the Aswan High Dam along with major industrial projects. He further stressed the decisive Soviet support during the October War of 1973, which included tanks, aircraft, and the famous Kalashnikov rifle, a symbol of victory and friendship.
On current relations, the Ambassador stated:
“Under President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Egyptian–Russian relations have witnessed an unprecedented revival. The warm ties between him and President Vladimir Putin have given a powerful boost to cooperation across political, economic, cultural, and strategic fields. Landmark projects such as the El-Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant and Egypt’s accession to BRICS stand as practical manifestations of the depth of our strategic partnership that is looking ahead to the future.”
He also recalled a symbolic moment during President El-Sisi’s first visit to Russia as Minister of Defense, when President Putin presented him with a Russian military jacket, reflecting the strength and warmth of bilateral ties.
The Ambassador concluded by underlining Egypt’s founding role alongside Russia in launching the Russia–Africa Summit, with Cairo co-chairing its inaugural session in Sochi in 2019, reaffirming its pivotal role in advancing Russian–African dialogue.
