During a visit to Cairo, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of strengthening ties and expanding cooperation with Egypt, underscoring the enduring relationship between the two nations. Xi, accompanied by his wife Peng Liyuan, was greeted by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and his wife as the visit commenced. This trip coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Egypt.
In a statement released prior to the visit, Xi highlighted the robust bond the two countries have maintained despite the evolving international landscape. He urged for enhanced efforts to deepen their comprehensive strategic partnership and explore new areas of collaboration. Xi pointed out that both China and Egypt are on paths to achieve significant national development goals and should synchronize their development strategies to maximize mutual benefits.
Xi encouraged further cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, with an emphasis on practical projects that promise long-term economic gains. He also advocated for expanded collaboration in various fields, including education, tourism, science and technology, healthcare, sports, and archaeology, aiming to bolster mutual understanding and strengthen the connection between the peoples of the two countries.
The Chinese leader stressed the importance of mutual support on major issues and safeguarding shared interests. He described Egypt as a crucial partner in enhancing cooperation between China and both Arab countries and Africa. Emphasizing their roles as members of the Global South, Xi called for closer coordination on international matters, increased support for multilateral cooperation, and joint efforts to foster global peace and stability.
This visit is anticipated to further solidify the political and economic relations between Beijing and Cairo, while also opening new avenues for collaboration in trade, infrastructure, technology, and other sectors. Xi expressed China’s readiness to collaborate with Egypt in building upon seven decades of diplomatic relations and injecting fresh momentum into their comprehensive strategic partnership.