Russian, Egyptian deputy FMs discuss European security, its influence on Middle East situation at meeting in Cairo

MOSCOW. May 13 (Interfax) - Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko has held consultations with his Egyptian counterpart Khalid Emara, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a press release on its website.

"The sides have discussed the ongoing formation of a multipolar world order, key trends in the evolution of international relations, and the changing role of international organizations and unions. In that context, views were exchanged on the security situation in Europe, which is in a profound crisis because of the actions of the European Union and NATO, and its influence on the situation in the Middle East and North Africa," the press release said.

The consultations "emphasized double standards in the EU's attitude to the events around Ukraine and in the Gaza Strip," it said.

"The parties highlighted cooperation in BRICS under the Russian presidency and touched upon the situation in the OSCE and the activity of the Council of Europe. They also discussed other items on the global and regional agendas, including the situation in North Africa and the Middle East. Both sides expressed their interest in continuing intensive dialogue on European and Eurasian affairs," the press release said.