Egypt Plans Russian Arms Purchase: Foreign Minister

Cairo is considering deliveries of Russian arms, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Nabil Fahmy was quoted as saying by RIA Novosti ahead of a Russian delegation's visit.

Nabil Fahmy said in an interview with RT television channel that “the issue of purchasing new Russian weapons should be carefully examined,” confirming the issue is under consideration in the Egyptian government.

Russia's defense and foreign ministers will travel to Cairo on Wednesday for a landmark two-day visit to discuss arms sales and political relations.

Earlier media reports indicated that Egypt, which has not bought Russian weapons since the early 1970s, is considering spending at least $4 billion on advanced weaponry from Russia.

The rumors circulating about Egypt turning to Russia for military assistance to meet its security needs follow the partial suspension of military aid and equipment deliveries from the United States.

Rosoboronexport official told RIA Novosti last week that new weaponry deliveries to Egypt would depend on the country’s ability to pay for them.