Egypt and Russia sign mutual cooperation pact in Moscow

Egypt and Russia have signalled their determination to work together at a meeting in Moscow to seal new military, political and economic ties. Talks between the two countries are being widely seen as part of Egypt’s shift to reduce reliance on the United States. But Egypt’s Foreign Minister Nabil Fahmi said the meeting was not against anyone but meant to diversify Cairo’s partners. “Our bilateral relations are founded on a solid basis with historic roots. We feel a friendly atmosphere and expect to build our common future together in the interests of our countries and people and to develop relations in all spheres from politics, to culture and military cooperation,” said Fahmi. The high-profile delegation includes Egypt’s army chief, Field Marshall Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi, who is on his first trip abroad since ousting the country’s Islamist president. He is due to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin for talks on Thursday.