Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrived in Egypt on Wednesday for a two-day state visit, the newest sign of the deepening relationship between the two countries.
Li was received by Egypt’s Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, and in an address shortly after his arrival, he said: “China and Egypt, as important members of the Global South, should further strengthen strategic coordination to safeguard their common interests.” He called for further strategic coordination and two-way investment.
The visit follows their first joint military exercises in April. Egypt has reportedly acquired a Chinese HQ-9B air defense system, and during the Eagles of Civilization 2025 exercises, an Egyptian pilot reportedly flew a Chinese-made J-10 jet, prompting rumors of a purchase. Cairo’s increasing defense cooperation with China could reflect misgivings about Israel’s actions in the region, supported by the United States.
The visit also comes amid a flurry of Chinese investment in Egyptian manufacturing, energy, and other fields. Egypt’s control of the Suez Canal and the proximity of its Suez Canal Economic Zone to major markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Europe made it a key destination for Chinese offshoring. Chinese companies are also heavily involved in the building of Egypt’s new capital city.
China’s state newspaper, Global Times, noted that the cooperation is moving towards an “upgrade from traditional infrastructure development to a full industrial chain collaboration focused on new quality productive forces.” Additional investment in tech and new energy could follow the visit.
WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT? Egypt has been a long-term strategic partner of the United States. The rapidly deepening relationship with China could reflect a shift triggered by wider regional conflicts.
