N. A. ZHERLITSYNA Candidate of Historical Sciences Institute of Africa, Russian Academy of Sciences Keywords: Russian-Egyptian relations, political cooperation, energy, trade, investment The historical character and strategic significance of the "return of Russia to Egypt" is determined by the coincidence of the political aspirations of the two countries, which see each other as potential allies.1 There are many factors that bring the Russian Federation and the Arab Republic of Egypt (ARE) closer together. Egypt and Russia are going through a difficult time: Each of the countries is under severe pressure both at the regional and international levels. As a result of the "Arab Spring", Egypt is weakened from within by the protracted confrontation between the military elite and the Muslim Brotherhood, and is surrounded by neighbors plunged into chaos and war. Russia in the economic and political spheres is also experiencing negative consequences of Western economic sanctions and falling oil prices. In this regard, partnership between the Russian Federation and the Arab Republic of Egypt is becoming not only a common desire, but also a necessity. "The political significance of this cooperation for each of the parties is to demonstrate that they are not in an "uncontested" situation in the international arena. This is relevant both for Russia, which is currently under various kinds of pressure from the West due to the Ukrainian crisis, and for Egypt, which is in need of external support, " says the columnist of the Turkish newspaper S. Cohen 2. RUSSIA RETURNS TO EGYPT Given the reorientation of Russia's foreign policy, an independent and influential partner in the Middle East is very important for it. Our countries share many common interests in the Middle East. The election of Egypt's new president, AF al-Sisi, is an important event that has changed the balance of power both in the Middle East and in global politics in favor of those who oppose radical Islamism. Cairo h ... Read more