Cairo - The Egyptian-Russian two plus two (2+2) strategic talks kicked off in Cairo on Monday. The two plus two meeting gathers the ministers of foreign affairs and defense in both countries. "The two sides discussed the perils of terrorism and extremism, and they both asserted the importance of international efforts in combating terrorism," presidential spokesperson, Alaa Youssef, said. The statement added that "both sides discussed latest developments in regional issues, especially the Syrian and Libyan issues, saying that a political solution is the only way to solve various crises experienced by the Arab region." "El-Sisi stressed on Egypt's keenness to consolidate partnership with Russia in economic, trade and industrial fields," the statement added. Before the meeting, Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry met with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov on ways to enhance bilateral relations in political, economic, cultural and tourism fields. The recent terrorist attacks in Egypt, and some European capitals were also discussed. The last two plus two talks between Egypt and Russia were held in Moscow in February 2014.
