During a visit to Cairo, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of strengthening the relationship and expanding cooperation with Egypt, as the two nations celebrate 70 years of diplomatic ties. Upon arrival, Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, were received by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and his wife, marking the significance of this diplomatic engagement.
In a message released prior to his visit, Xi highlighted the resilience of the China-Egypt relationship despite shifts in the global landscape. He called for intensified efforts to enhance their comprehensive strategic partnership, seeking to explore new avenues for collaboration. Xi underscored the alignment of Egypt and China’s national development objectives and urged both nations to coordinate their strategies, particularly under the Belt and Road Initiative, focusing on practical projects with long-lasting economic impact.
The Chinese leader advocated for expanded cooperation across various sectors such as education, tourism, science and technology, healthcare, sports, and archaeology. By fostering stronger exchanges, Xi believes the two countries can enhance mutual understanding and strengthen the bonds between their peoples. Additionally, he stressed the importance of mutual support on major issues, emphasizing the protection of shared interests.
Xi also identified Egypt as a key partner in bolstering cooperative efforts between China and both Arab countries and Africa. He noted the significant roles both nations play within the Global South, advocating for increased coordination on international matters, multilateral cooperation, and joint initiatives to promote global peace and stability. The visit is poised to further solidify political and economic ties between Beijing and Cairo, opening new avenues for collaboration in trade, infrastructure, technology, and other critical sectors.
Concluding his remarks, President Xi expressed China’s readiness to work alongside Egypt to build upon their seven decades of diplomatic relations, aiming to infuse fresh momentum into their comprehensive strategic partnership. This visit is anticipated to pave the way for deepened collaboration, benefiting both nations and reinforcing their longstanding alliance.