Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi participated in the 3rd Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow, where he expressed deep concern over rising tensions in the African Horn region. The summit, which took place on October 29, 2026, brought together leaders from Russia and African countries to discuss cooperation and development. President El-Sisi emphasized the need for a more just and representative international system, ensuring that African voices are heard in global decision-making.
During the summit, President El-Sisi met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and the two leaders discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations between Egypt and Russia. The Egyptian-Russian strategic partnership has led to significant projects, including the construction of the Dabaa nuclear power plant and the Russian Industrial Zone in the Suez Canal Economic Zone. These projects have contributed to Egypt's economic growth and have served as a model for cooperation between Russia and Africa.
In his speech at the summit, President El-Sisi outlined Egypt's vision for development in Africa, which focuses on five key areas: supporting the establishment of strategic corridors and logistics zones, increasing intra-African trade, enhancing cooperation in energy and electricity interconnection, achieving water and food security, and promoting cooperation in communications, technology, and artificial intelligence. He stressed that Egypt's future is closely tied to Africa's and that sustainable development requires integrated efforts and African ownership of development priorities.
President El-Sisi also emphasized the importance of reforming international institutions, including the United Nations Security Council, to ensure that they are more representative and just. He called for African countries to have a stronger voice in global decision-making, particularly in the Security Council, which should be reformed to reflect the continent's interests. Egypt's president also highlighted the need to address the root causes of instability in Africa, including poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunities.
The Russian-African Summit has provided a platform for leaders to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation and address common challenges. The summit has resulted in the adoption of several documents, including a joint statement, a declaration on cooperation in the peaceful use of artificial intelligence, and a plan of action for the Russian-African Partnership Forum for 2027-2029. These agreements aim to promote economic cooperation, trade, and investment between Russia and Africa.
President El-Sisi's participation in the summit reflects Egypt's commitment to strengthening relations with African countries and promoting cooperation on the continent. Egypt has played a key role in African affairs, hosting several international conferences and summits, including the African Union Summit in 2017. The country's strategic location and economic influence make it an important player in regional and continental affairs.
The tensions in the African Horn region have raised concerns among African leaders, who fear that the instability could spread to other parts of the continent. The region has experienced several conflicts, including the Ethiopian-Eritrean conflict and the Somali civil war. President El-Sisi's call for a peaceful resolution to the conflicts and rejection of external interference in the region's affairs reflects Egypt's commitment to promoting stability and security in Africa.
Key points
- President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi expresses concern over rising tensions in the African Horn region at the 3rd Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow.
