Russian President Vladimir Putin

The long-awaited visit to Egypt by Russia's President Vladimir Putin on Monday, is getting special attention particularly after the rapprochement between Cairo and Moscow recently.
Images of President Abdel Fattah El Sisi along with Putin are visible in Cairo's main streets and bridges, reflecting the friendly welcome of the Russian leader in Egypt.
Egypt and Russia enjoy profound historical relations, as Moscow considers Cairo a strategic center for decision-making in the Middle East.
The strong bilateral ties were more than evident when Russia expressed its support to Egypt after the June 30 Revolution and its subsequent developments, mirrored in its backing of the future Roadmap, set on July 3, 2013.
Political relations also culminated after the official visit paid by Sisi to Sochi on August 12, 2014, where he received a special and generous welcoming.
In the economic field, both countries have agreed to increase trade, as Russia boosts its grain exports to Egypt by 60 percent, while Cairo will increase its agricultural exports to Moscow by 30 percent.
Trade between the two countries hit dlrs three billions in 2013, as Egyptian exports surged by 29 percent, compared to 2012, thanks to the increase in vegetables and fruits exports.
Meantime, Russia has 363 projects in Egypt worth $148.74 millions.