Putin: No agreement yet on restoring air link to Egypt

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday officials from Cairo and Moscow have so far failed to agree on security procedures needed to restore direct flights between the two countries.

Moscow halted the flights after the downing last October of a Russian passenger jet over Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula that killed all 224 people on board. Russia says the plane was brought down by an explosive device, and a local branch of the Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for planting it.

The crash and Russia’s decision to cut the air link has dealt a severe blow to Egypt’s vital tourism sector.

Putin said on Thursday that Russia and Egypt must agree on enhanced airport security checks to make it safe for the Russians to travel to Egypt.

There was no immediate comment from Cairo.

Source: The Associated Press