Lavrov: Russia keen on developing ties with Egypt

Russia said Monday Egypt was an old partner in the Middle East and is keen to developing its traditional relations with the north African country. The ongoing developments "are deep and complicated that affect all aspects of political, economic and social lives," foreign minister Sergei Lavrov told a news conference after his talks with his Egyptian counterpart Nabil Fahmy. He said Russia was ready to provide all kinds of support to Egypt but not to interfere in the country's internal affairs, as well as respecting Egypt's sovereignty and independence. He said his talks with Fahmy were constructive and dealt with economic, political, humanitarian and military cooperation. Egypt is a leading country in the Middle East and North Africa, said Lavrov and hoped Cairo would restore its leading role in the region. The talks, he added, also covered the Arab-Israeli conflict. He asserted importance of holding an international conference to clear the Middle East from weapons of mass destruction (WMD).