New delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin held separate discussions with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim alongside the BRICS summit in New Delhi, India.
According to Anadolu Agency, the meeting with Ramaphosa underscored the progression of Russia-South Africa relations, emphasizing ongoing political dialogue, parliamentary ties, and cooperation in education and humanitarian sectors. Putin noted the growing bilateral trade and announced an increase in scholarship quotas for South African students to 100 for the 2026-27 academic year. He acknowledged the shared viewpoints of both nations on significant international and regional matters, extending gratitude for South Africa's support of Russian initiatives at the United Nations. Additionally, preparations for the third Russia-Africa summit in Moscow, scheduled for October 28-29, were discussed, highlighting priorities such as digital technologies, artificial intelligence, nuclear energy, payment systems, and food security. Ramaphosa expressed appreciation for Russia's support of South Africa's G20 presidency and anticipated expansion in bilateral trade, pledging a robust delegation to the upcoming summit.
In discussions with el-Sisi, Putin noted the growth in trade between Russia and Egypt and the steady progress of major collaborative projects. He extended an invitation to el-Sisi for the Russia-Africa summit in Moscow, emphasizing Egypt's pivotal stance on regional and global issues. El-Sisi reported bilateral trade exceeding $10 billion and underscored cooperation on significant projects like the El Dabaa nuclear power plant, constructed by Russia's Rosatom. He highlighted Egypt's dependence on grain imports from Russia and Ukraine, stressing the importance of stable supplies, and expressed Cairo's interest in regional stability through collaboration with Moscow and other partners.
During his meeting with Ibrahim, Putin highlighted a 12.9% increase in bilateral trade with Malaysia last year. The leaders explored avenues for bilateral cooperation, focusing on the expansion of trade, energy, education, technology, and tourism connections. Putin's arrival in India marked his participation in the 18th BRICS summit, scheduled for the weekend.