MOSCOW. Dec 12 (Interfax) - Russian President Vladimir Putin extended condolences to Egyptian leader Abdel el-Sisi over the casualties suffered in a blast staged near a Coptic Orthodox cathedral in Cairo and confirmed Moscow's readiness to jointly counter terrorism, the Kremlin press service said on Sunday.
"The Russian president said that this tragedy once again confirms the need for a resolute joint fight against international terror that sows death and devastation and seeks to undermine peace and accord between people of different confessions and confirmed that, on its part, Russia is ready to continue closest cooperation with Egypt in counteracting this threat," the press service said.
"I am astounded with a horrible terrorist act, which has taken place in Cairo. It is especially sorrowful that there are women and children among the casualties," the Russian head of state said in a telegram of condolence.
Putin conveyed the words of sympathy and support to the families of the casualties and the wishes of speedy recovery to injured people.