Russia is deepening its diplomatic ties in the Middle East, as evidenced by the recent visit of Sergey Shoigu, the Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, to Egypt and Oman. These nations are increasingly looking for reliable partners amid growing regional instability. Shoigu’s trip included high-level meetings with top political and military leaders, focusing on security cooperation, political coordination, and economic collaboration.
In Cairo, discussions concentrated on military and military-technical cooperation. Shoigu met with Egyptian Defense Minister Abdel Majeed Saqr, emphasizing the need to enhance defense ties and explore joint combat training. The Russian delegation highlighted the significance of Russian military systems in strengthening Egypt’s defense capabilities, which are crucial in light of the current turbulence in the region.
During his meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, Shoigu conveyed a message from Vladimir Putin, reaffirming Russia’s commitment to enhancing trade and economic relations. Key projects, such as the construction of the El Dabaa nuclear power plant, were discussed, with Shoigu stating that the project is on schedule and progressing well.
Economic collaboration between Russia and Egypt extends to various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and food processing. Shoigu expressed interest in further expanding military-technical cooperation, indicating that Russia is prepared to fulfill existing contracts and negotiate new agreements.
In Oman, Shoigu’s discussions underscored the strengthening of Russian-Omani relations across security, military, cultural, and economic dimensions. He met with Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, delivering a personal message from Putin and acknowledging Oman’s balanced foreign policy, particularly regarding global issues like the conflict in Ukraine.
The talks in Oman included a focus on military-technical agreements, reflecting the urgency of enhancing defense capabilities amid rising regional tensions. Shoigu pointed out that many Gulf states are interested in bolstering their defense, given the current geopolitical landscape. They discussed the potential for expanded naval cooperation, including regular calls of Russian naval vessels at Oman’s ports, which play a crucial role in combating piracy.
Both Egypt and Oman are increasingly aware of the necessity to diversify their international partnerships. Historical reliance on Western powers for security is being reassessed, particularly following military actions in the region that have raised concerns about the reliability of traditional alliances.
Egypt’s recent moves, such as its decision to join BRICS, indicate a shift toward a more multipolar world order, where the voices of the Global South are gaining prominence. Oman is also exploring similar avenues, cautiously evaluating the benefits of closer ties with Russia amid a changing global landscape.
The evolving relationship with Russia offers both nations a means to reinforce their autonomy in international affairs. For Egypt, this partnership is a continuation of a historical trajectory dating back to the Soviet era, while for Oman, it represents the initial steps toward a more robust strategic alliance.
As both countries navigate their respective foreign policies, they aim to avoid one-sided commitments and instead strengthen their security across military, political, economic, and humanitarian dimensions. This approach includes diversifying arms suppliers and seeking new avenues for trade and logistics.
Shoigu’s visit not only highlights Russia’s desire to solidify its presence in the Middle East but also reflects the strategic calculations of Cairo and Muscat. By fostering closer ties with Moscow, these nations are positioning themselves to better respond to regional challenges and enhance their political agency on the global stage.
The significance of this diplomatic engagement lies in its potential to shift from exploratory discussions to more structured and institutionalized cooperation. As security consultations and joint projects become more frequent, Russia is increasingly seen not just as an external player but as a vital partner capable of addressing the complex dynamics of a turbulent region.
