Xi Jinping Visits Egypt to Deepen Strategic Partnership

President Xi Jinping arrived in Cairo on September 1, 2026, for a three-day state visit marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Egypt. This first trip to Egypt in a decade follows a signed article published by Xi in Egyptian media, where he characterized the bilateral relationship as a benchmark for cooperation between China and Arab and African nations.

During the visit, Xi and President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi focused on deepening a comprehensive strategic partnership that aligns China's Belt and Road Initiative with Egypt's Vision 2030. The leaders discussed expanding collaboration in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, aerospace, and telecommunications. Existing projects include the Central Business District in Cairo's New Administrative Capital and the China-Egypt Suez Economic and Trade Cooperation Zone, which has attracted over 200 companies.

The summit occurs amid regional instability and a conflict between the United States and Iran. While Egypt continues to receive $1.3 billion in annual U.S. military aid, it has diversified its security ties, recently hosting joint air combat exercises featuring Chinese J-16 fighter jets. Both leaders expressed support for Palestinian national rights and a political settlement for regional hotspots.

For China, Egypt serves as a critical geopolitical gateway to Arab and African markets and provides strategic access to the Suez Canal. Egypt seeks to maintain strategic autonomy by leveraging ties with both Beijing and Washington, even as the United States Department of the Treasury recently sanctioned an Emirati branch of Egypt's Banque Misr for alleged support to Iran.