New Delhi, May 14 — Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty on the sidelines of the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi, with discussions centred on Middle East tensions and the future of bilateral cooperation.

The two ministers reviewed the volatile situation surrounding Iran, stressing the urgent need for a peaceful settlement and a long‑term framework that respects the legitimate interests of regional states.

Both sides underscored the importance of collective international efforts to prevent escalation and to secure stability across the Middle East.

Lavrov and Abdelatty also explored ways to deepen Russia–Egypt relations, highlighting opportunities in energy, trade, security, and cultural exchange.

Egypt, which joined BRICS in 2024, has sought to leverage the bloc to strengthen its role as a diplomatic bridge between Africa and the Arab world.

Their meeting came amid a wider BRICS agenda dominated by global crises. The New Delhi summit focused on reforming international financial institutions, safeguarding energy and food security, and addressing climate change.

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar urged dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflicts. At the same time, Iran pressed the bloc to condemn what it called “unlawful aggression” by the United States and Israel.

For Russia, the talks reinforced its push to expand partnerships beyond the West, while Egypt’s participation signalled its growing influence in shaping multilateral responses to regional instability.

BRICS Expansion Timeline

• 2024: Egypt, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Iran, and Ethiopia admitted.
• 2026: First full‑scale foreign ministers’ meeting with expanded membership in New Delhi.
• Original members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa.

Russia–Egypt Cooperation Highlights

• Energy: El Dabaa nuclear power plant project.
• Tourism: Russia among Egypt’s top tourist sources.
• Defence: Arms trade and security cooperation.
• Trade: Growing agricultural and industrial exports.

Strait of Hormuz Crisis Impact

• 20% of global oil and gas passes through the strait.
• Rising energy prices due to maritime insecurity.
• BRICS ministers called for safe maritime flows and respect for sovereignty