Russian-Ukraine conflict on the agenda as El Sisi makes first visit to Armenia: President Abdel Fattah El Sisi met his Armenian counterpart Vahagn Khachaturyan in Yerevan yesterday, where they spoke about strengthening bilateral relations, the fight against terrorism and extremism, and efforts to face the global economic fallout from the Russian-Ukrainian war, according to an Ittihadiya statement. El Sisi also held a separate meeting with Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan, where they discussed mutual investment and agreed to intensify coordination and consultation over the war and its economic repercussions, according to a separate statement by Ittihadiya.

IT’S A BIG DEAL- The visit is the first by an Egyptian president since Armenia gained independence from the Soviet Union.

We’re looking to deepen ties with Armenia: The visit saw the two countries ink several MoUs and agreements in science, tech, sports, and investment. The two presidents also discussed boosting trade, opening regular direct flights between Cairo and Yerevan, and cooperation in the energy, infrastructure, agriculture, IT, food and pharma industries.

An offer to play peacekeeper between Armenia and Azerbaijan? President El Sisi said that Egypt maintains a neutral position over the Armenian-Azerbaijani crisis and could act as a mediator if needed, according to a readout by the Armenian presidency. “In this sense, if you accept our mediation and would like us to mediate or assume such a role, then we are ready,” El Sisi told Khachaturyan.