Opening remarks of Russian President Vladimir Putin at a meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi on the sidelines of the Third Russia. Africa Summit (Moscow, October 28, 2026) Vladimir Putin: We are grateful to you that you came to the summit and you and I were important in establishing this format, holding Russia first–. Africa Summit in Sochi in 2019. I remember very well how it all started. I remember asking you to take the lead in this process. You responded so positively and agreed to do it. With your encouragement, we can say, the process gained momentum and developed quite actively and productively. Since then, we have achieved a great deal through our joint efforts. The main indicator is the increase in trade between Russia and Africa. Since 2022, its total volume has increased by 50% to exceed $27 billion. Egypt is responsible for a significant part of this trade. On September 11, on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in New Delhi, we had a useful exchange of views on the situation in the region and the further development of friendly relations between Russia and Egypt. The historical relations between our countries are based on principles of mutual respect, consideration of each other's interests and mutual assistance. They continue to develop successfully in accordance with the treaty on comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation. Despite regional tensions, bilateral trade continues to grow steadily. In the first eight months of the year, it has already grown by 14%. In 2025, it peaked, surpassing $10 billion for the first time. Our Joint Intergovernmental Committee is working productively, and preparations are underway for its 16th meeting, to be held in Egypt in 2027. Our flagship project for the construction of the Al Daba nuclear power plant in Egypt is progressing according to schedule.

Opening remarks of Russian President Vladimir Putin at a meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi on the sidelines of the Third Russia. Africa Summit (Moscow, October 28, 2026) Vladimir Putin: We are grateful to you that you came to the summit and you and I were important in establishing this format, holding Russia first–. Africa Summit in Sochi in 2019. I remember very well how it all started. I remember asking you to take the lead in this process. You responded so positively and agreed to do it. With your encouragement, we can say, the process gained momentum and developed quite actively and productively. Since then, we have achieved a great deal through our joint efforts. The main indicator is the increase in trade between Russia and Africa. Since 2022, its total volume has increased by 50% to exceed $27 billion. Egypt is responsible for a significant part of this trade. On September 11, on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in New Delhi, we had a useful exchange of views on the situation in the region and the further development of friendly relations between Russia and Egypt. The historical relations between our countries are based on principles of mutual respect, consideration of each other's interests and mutual assistance. They continue to develop successfully in accordance with the treaty on comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation. Despite regional tensions, bilateral trade continues to grow steadily. In the first eight months of the year, it has already grown by 14%. In 2025, it peaked, surpassing $10 billion for the first time. Our Joint Intergovernmental Committee is working productively, and preparations are underway for its 16th meeting, to be held in Egypt in 2027. Our flagship project for the construction of the Al Daba nuclear power plant in Egypt is progressing according to schedule.