Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi participated in the third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow, where he outlined Egypt's vision for African development. The summit, which was co-hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin, brought together leaders from across the continent to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation between Russia and Africa. During the summit, El-Sisi emphasized the importance of respecting African priorities and achieving mutually beneficial interests.
El-Sisi's speech highlighted Egypt's commitment to deepening its partnership with Russia and the African continent. He noted that Egypt's strategic partnership with Russia serves as a model for cooperation between Russia and Africa, citing projects such as the Dabaa nuclear power plant and the Russian Industrial Zone in the Suez Canal Economic Zone. These projects, he said, demonstrate the potential for collaboration in areas such as energy, industry, and investment.
The Egyptian President outlined five key areas that underpin Egypt's vision for African development. These include supporting the establishment of strategic corridors and logistics hubs, increasing intra-African trade, enhancing cooperation in the energy and electricity sectors, ensuring water and food security, and promoting cooperation in the fields of communications, technology, and artificial intelligence. These areas, he emphasized, are critical to achieving sustainable development and promoting economic growth.
El-Sisi also stressed the need for a more equitable and representative international system, which would give Africa a stronger voice in global decision-making. He called for reform of the United Nations Security Council to reflect the continent's interests and ensure that African countries have a greater say in international affairs. This, he argued, is essential for achieving peace, stability, and prosperity on the continent.
The President also expressed concern about rising tensions in the Horn of Africa and reaffirmed Egypt's commitment to respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries in the region. He rejected any attempts to undermine the unity of Sudan or compromise its sovereignty and territorial integrity. El-Sisi called for a peaceful resolution to conflicts and support for a Sudanese-led political process.
El-Sisi also highlighted the importance of cooperation in managing transboundary water resources, citing the Nile River as a key example. He emphasized that water resources should be a source of cooperation and understanding, rather than conflict or tension. Egypt's vision for African development, he said, is built on the principles of mutual respect, cooperation, and a commitment to achieving sustainable development.
The Russia-Africa Summit concluded with the adoption of a package of documents outlining the framework for cooperation between Russia and Africa. The documents include a declaration on cooperation in the use of artificial intelligence for civilian purposes and a plan of action for the Russian-African Partnership Forum for 2027-2029. El-Sisi welcomed the plan of action, which he said would help to strengthen strategic cooperation between Russia and African countries.
Key points
- President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi outlines Egypt's vision for African development at the Russia-Africa Summit.
- Egypt's vision for African development focuses on five key areas, including supporting strategic corridors and logistics hubs and promoting cooperation in energy and electricity.
- El-Sisi calls for a more equitable and representative international system, which would give Africa a stronger voice in global decision-making.
