Flights between Moscow, Egypt to resume, says Russian Amb

CAIRO – 4 June 2017: Flights between Russia and Egypt may resume very soon, Russian Ambassador to Egypt Sergei Kerbachenko said Sunday. The resumption could come shortly after finalizing the review of some important points in a government memorandum to ensure airport security.

Kerbachenko added in statements that Russia considers Egypt as a “very close friend” and that both parties have good intentions regarding the resumption of the flights.

Relations between the two countries are “important and effective” and are not limited to politics, the ambassador added.

According to Kerbachenko’s statements, Egyptian-Russian trade ranged from $4-$5 billion during past years. He predicted a significant increase after the establishment of the industrial area of the Suez Canal axis.

Direct flights between Egypt and Russia were suspended in November 2015 following the crash of Russian Airbus A321 in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula. All 217 passengers and seven crewmembers on board were killed. Groups affiliated with the Islamic State group claimed responsibility for downing the plane.