Egypt and Russia Discuss Nuclear Cooperation and Regional Security in Moscow

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss expanding nuclear energy cooperation and regional security matters. The discussion took place on the sidelines of the third Russia-Africa Summit at the Kremlin.

July 9, 2025

Workers installed the reactor pressure vessel for unit two at the El-Dabaa nuclear power plant. During the meeting, Al-Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to the project’s established timeline and financial obligations.

The Moscow Meeting

President Al-Sisi proposed future nuclear cooperation beyond the current project, including potential reactor construction after 2030. He expressed interest in research reactors, small and floating nuclear plants, and collaboration on extracting uranium and rare metals. Regarding economic ties, Putin noted that bilateral trade exceeded $10 billion in 2025, marking a 14% increase in the first eight months of the year. Both leaders discussed supporting the Russian Industrial Zone within the Suez Canal Economic Zone, with Al-Sisi promising full administrative and financial support.

2027

The two nations scheduled the 16th meeting of their joint intergovernmental commission to take place in Egypt. The upcoming summit aims to further cooperation in areas including grain supplies, healthcare, education, and scientific research.

Current Status of Relations

The leaders addressed international diplomacy, noting their previous exchange at the September 11 BRICS summit in New Delhi. They emphasized the need for de-escalation in the Middle East. Al-Sisi highlighted the importance of water security in the Nile Basin and sovereignty in the Horn of Africa, while Putin acknowledged Egypt’s regional role. On the conflict in Ukraine, Al-Sisi reiterated Egypt’s support for a negotiated political settlement.

Why it matters: This meeting underscores the deepening strategic alliance between Cairo and Moscow, particularly in the energy sector. For Egypt, diversifying nuclear capabilities is a national priority, while the economic cooperation highlights Egypt’s role as a primary gateway for Russian trade within the African continent.