Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Cairo on Sunday. The meeting, attended by Egypt’s foreign minister Sameh Shoukry and senior Chinese officials, focused on strengthening cooperation between the two countries. This visit to Egypt is part of Wang’s tour of Africa, which will also include visits to Tunisia, Togo, and Cote d’Ivoire.
Cooperation between Egypt and China was emphasized during the meeting. Both sides expressed their commitment to continue joint economic development projects at the bilateral level and within the framework of their membership in the BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) and China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
President Xi Jinping sent a letter to President El-Sisi through Wang, congratulating him on his re-election. The letter reaffirmed China’s commitment to advancing the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries and recognized Egypt’s role in promoting security, stability, and development in the Middle East.
President El-Sisi expressed Egypt’s pride in its relations with China and reiterated its support for the one-China principle. He emphasized the importance of closer coordination between the two countries to reinforce international peace and stability. The leaders also discussed regional and international developments, particularly the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.
El-Sisi stressed the need for a ceasefire in Gaza to protect civilians and alleviate regional tensions. Wang agreed with Egypt’s position on the matter. The two sides also discussed Egypt’s efforts in mobilizing and delivering humanitarian assistance to Gaza, in coordination with the UN and the international community.
The international community’s role in ensuring the delivery of relief into the Gaza Strip, in accordance with relevant UN resolutions, was highlighted during the talks. Egypt and China emphasized the importance of complying with international law and rejected any forced transfer or displacement of Palestinians.
Both countries agreed on the need to address the root causes of the crisis through a just and comprehensive settlement based on the two-state solution. They reiterated their support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state in accordance with international legitimacy.
The meeting between President El-Sisi and Foreign Minister Wang Yi underscores the strong bilateral relations between Egypt and China. The two countries are committed to deepening their cooperation in various fields, including economic development and regional stability. Egypt’s strategic location and China’s economic prowess make them important partners in promoting peace and prosperity in the Middle East and Africa.
As China continues to expand its influence globally through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative, Egypt stands to benefit from increased investment and trade opportunities. The comprehensive strategic partnership between Egypt and China opens doors for collaboration in areas such as infrastructure development, energy, and tourism.
In conclusion, the meeting between President El-Sisi and Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirms the strong ties between Egypt and China. Both countries are committed to enhancing their cooperation and working together to address regional challenges. Egypt’s strategic position in the Middle East, combined with China’s economic strength, makes them valuable partners in promoting peace and development in the region.