In a significant diplomatic engagement, Chinese President Xi Jinping has proposed a new security framework for the Middle East, emphasizing the principles of cooperation, dialogue, and respect for national sovereignty. This proposal came during discussions with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo, where Xi suggested a comprehensive four-point strategy. This strategy aims to enhance regional security collaboration, address intertwined conflicts, bolster economic development, and strengthen international coordination.
President Xi underscored the importance of regional countries assuming greater responsibility for their own security, expressing opposition to external interference by other powers. He highlighted the centrality of the Palestinian issue in resolving broader tensions across the Middle East. Furthermore, China signaled its readiness to partner with regional nations in safeguarding international shipping lanes, fostering economic growth, and tackling the root causes of conflicts. Xi emphasized the importance of adhering to the United Nations Charter and international law as fundamental frameworks for addressing regional challenges.
The dialogue between the two leaders also placed a strong emphasis on boosting economic ties between China and Egypt. Xi advocated for increased collaboration in various sectors, including infrastructure, energy, agriculture, communications, electric vehicles, green energy, aerospace, and the digital economy. China has maintained its position as Egypt’s largest trading partner and leading source of imports for 14 consecutive years, with bilateral trade figures escalating from $10.21 billion in 2013 to $20.79 billion in 2025.
Over the course of their discussions, China and Egypt signed more than 20 cooperation agreements encompassing areas such as artificial intelligence, trade, technology, education, transportation, and industrial supply chains. The two countries also released a joint statement aimed at further enhancing their comprehensive strategic partnership, reflecting a deepening of bilateral relations.
