Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi on Thursday participated in the third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow, where he delivered a speech highlighting Egypt's vision for enhancing cooperation between Africa and Russia. The summit, which was hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin, brought together leaders from across the continent to discuss ways to strengthen ties and address common challenges. President Sisi emphasized the importance of respecting African priorities and achieving mutual benefits in the partnership between Africa and Russia.
During his speech, President Sisi outlined Egypt's vision for development in Africa, which is based on five key areas: supporting the establishment of strategic corridors and logistics zones, increasing intra-African trade, enhancing cooperation in the energy and electricity sectors, achieving water and food security, and promoting cooperation in the fields of communications, technology, and artificial intelligence. He stressed that Egypt's future is closely tied to the future of the African continent and that sustainable development requires integrated efforts and African ownership of development priorities.
President Sisi also called for a more just and representative international system, where African voices are heard and influential in shaping major international decisions. He emphasized the need for reform of the United Nations Security Council to reflect the continent's interests and aspirations. Furthermore, he expressed concern about escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa and rejected any threats to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries in the region.
The Egyptian President also highlighted the importance of promoting cooperation in the management of transboundary rivers, in accordance with international law and the principles of not causing harm, prior notification, consultation, and consensus. He noted that Egypt, which faces severe water scarcity, attaches great importance to this issue, particularly in the context of the Nile River, and supports the African Water Vision 2063.
President Sisi welcomed the adoption of a package of documents during the summit, 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. He expressed appreciation for Russia's efforts to strengthen cooperation with Africa and reiterated Egypt's commitment to working with Russia and other African countries to achieve common goals.
The summit also provided an opportunity for President Sisi to engage with other leaders and discuss ways to enhance cooperation on issues of common interest. He participated in a working lunch for heads of state and delegations participating in the summit, where they discussed ways to take the Russia-Africa partnership to the next level.
The third Russia-Africa Summit concluded with a commitment to strengthen cooperation between Russia and Africa in various fields, including politics, economy, and security. The summit also provided a platform for African leaders to discuss common challenges and opportunities, and to reaffirm their commitment to working together to achieve sustainable development and prosperity.
Key points
- President Sisi emphasized the importance of promoting cooperation in the management of transboundary rivers, in accordance with international law and the principles of not causing harm, prior notification, consultation, and consensus.
