In a recent visit to Cairo, Chinese President Xi Jinping advocated for a fresh security framework in the Middle East, emphasizing collaboration, dialogue, and upholding national sovereignty. During discussions with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Xi introduced a four-point strategy aimed at bolstering regional security cooperation, tackling interconnected conflicts, fostering economic growth, and enhancing international coordination. He emphasized the importance of regional countries assuming greater responsibility for their own security while opposing external interference. Xi also underscored the significance of the Palestinian issue as central to addressing broader tensions in the Middle East.
China has expressed its readiness to partner with Middle Eastern countries in safeguarding international shipping routes, advancing economic development, and tackling the root causes of conflict. Xi highlighted the importance of the United Nations Charter and international law as the foundational basis for addressing regional challenges. The talks with President El-Sisi also heavily focused on enhancing economic ties between China and Egypt, with Xi calling for increased collaboration in sectors such as infrastructure, energy, agriculture, communications, electric vehicles, green energy, aerospace, and the digital economy.
China’s relationship with Egypt has been marked by a long-standing economic partnership, with China being Egypt’s largest trading partner and primary source of imports for 14 consecutive years. The bilateral trade between the two nations saw a significant increase from $10.21 billion in 2013 to $20.79 billion by 2025. This economic partnership was further solidified by the signing of over 20 cooperation agreements covering diverse areas such as artificial intelligence, trade, technology, education, transportation, and industrial supply chains.
The joint statement issued by China and Egypt aims to strengthen their comprehensive strategic partnership. This move reflects China’s growing interest in playing a proactive role in the Middle East, advocating for a regional approach that reduces reliance on external powers while promoting stability and economic development. By engaging in such partnerships, China seeks to enhance its influence and foster long-term collaborations that benefit both its economic and geopolitical interests in the region.