In a significant diplomatic move, Chinese President Xi Jinping has advocated for the development of a new security framework in the Middle East, emphasizing the importance of cooperation, dialogue, and respect for national sovereignty. This proposal was made during discussions with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo, where Xi outlined a comprehensive four-point plan. The plan aims to enhance regional security cooperation, address interconnected conflicts, support economic growth, and improve international coordination.
Xi highlighted the necessity for Middle Eastern countries to assume greater responsibility for their own security, expressing opposition to interference by external powers. He underscored that resolving the Palestinian issue is crucial to alleviating broader tensions in the region. Furthermore, China expressed its readiness to collaborate with regional nations on protecting vital international shipping routes, fostering economic development, and addressing the root causes of conflict. Xi emphasized the importance of adhering to the United Nations Charter and international law as the basis for addressing regional challenges.
The discussions also placed a strong emphasis on bolstering economic ties between China and Egypt. Xi called for increased collaboration in various sectors, including infrastructure, energy, agriculture, communications, electric vehicles, green energy, aerospace, and the digital economy. Over the past 14 years, China has consistently been Egypt’s largest trading partner and its primary source of imports. The bilateral trade volume saw a significant increase, rising from $10.21 billion in 2013 to $20.79 billion in 2025.
In a further demonstration of their strengthened partnership, China and Egypt signed more than 20 cooperation agreements. These agreements cover a wide range of areas, including artificial intelligence, trade, technology, education, transportation, and industrial supply chains. The two countries also issued a joint statement, reaffirming their commitment to enhancing their comprehensive strategic partnership. This development underscores the growing importance of China-Egypt relations in the context of both regional and international dynamics.