In a significant diplomatic move, Chinese President Xi Jinping has advocated for a novel security architecture in the Middle East, one founded on principles of cooperation, dialogue, and respect for national sovereignty. During discussions with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo, Xi presented a comprehensive four-point plan aimed at enhancing regional security collaboration, tackling intertwined conflicts, bolstering economic growth, and improving international coordination.
Xi emphasized the importance of regional countries taking greater ownership of their security issues, while opposing external interference. He underscored the Palestinian issue as central to alleviating broader tensions across the Middle East. Furthermore, China expressed its readiness to partner with regional nations in safeguarding international shipping lanes, encouraging economic progress, and addressing the root causes of conflict. Xi highlighted the importance of adhering to the United Nations Charter and international law as the basis for addressing regional challenges.
The dialogue between the two leaders also centered on deepening economic ties between China and Egypt. Xi called for enhanced collaboration in various sectors, including infrastructure, energy, agriculture, communications, electric vehicles, green energy, aerospace, and the digital economy. Notably, China has maintained its status as Egypt’s largest trading partner and primary source of imports for the past 14 years, with bilateral trade growing from $10.21 billion in 2013 to an anticipated $20.79 billion by 2025.
In a bid to strengthen their comprehensive strategic partnership, China and Egypt signed over 20 cooperative agreements covering a wide range of areas, such as artificial intelligence, trade, technology, education, transportation, and industrial supply chains. This cooperation reflects a shared commitment to advancing mutual interests and underscores the deepening economic relationship between the two nations.