Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will kick off a tour of Africa next week that includes Egypt, which he described as Moscow’s “number one” partner in the continent.
Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said his trip, from July 24 to 28, will include Egypt, Ethiopia, Uganda and the Republic of Congo.
Lavrov on Wednesday highlighted the joint projects between Egypt and Russia, most notably the construction of the Suez industrial zone and Dabaa nuclear power plant.
He told Sputnik and RT that the “Soviet Union played a role in liberating many African countries from colonialism.”
Director of Egyptian Council for Foreign Affairs Ezzat Saad said Russia is aware of the development of Egyptian-African relations in recent years and it is keen on listening to Cairo’s view on the future of Russian cooperation with the continent.
He told Asharq Al-Awsat that the bilateral projects between Egypt and Russia are tied to Africa, such as the Suez industrial zone, which gains significance with the implementation of the African free trade agreement.
Egypt is keen on continuing cooperation with Russia in regards to its ties with Africa, he added.
It is a welcome partner in Africa given its historic role in backing liberation movements during the Soviet era and its current support to thorny African files before international organizations, Saad went on to say.
Lavrov visits Africa as the Russian-Ukrainian conflict enters its 150th day.
Saad noted that it is important for Moscow to diversify its economic relations given the challenges it is facing and the sanctions imposed on it by the West.
