Egypt-China relations have recently been the subject of renewed interest, marked by the conclusion of the fourth round of strategic talks between the two nations. In this historic round held in Beijing on Friday, December 13, 2024, the Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Expatriates, Badr Abdelatty, and his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, led the discussions.
During these in-depth and comprehensive exchanges, the two sides discussed a plethora of topics of mutual interest, both bilaterally, regionally and internationally. They reviewed the progress made by the two countries since the establishment of their diplomatic relations, with particular emphasis on the elevation of these ties to the level of comprehensive strategic partnership 10 years ago.
In a joint statement, the two sides stressed the urgent need to honor the important consensus reached by the presidents of the two countries during their exchanges in May 2024. They called for strengthening bilateral relations to realize the ultimate goal of establishing a China-Egypt community in the not-too-distant future, taking the opportunity of the Egypt-China Partnership Year 2024 as a new starting point.
The two sides welcomed the organization of many joint diplomatic, economic, trade, investment, cultural and tourism activities during this current year, with the aim of strengthening bilateral cooperation in all fields. They affirmed their commitment to continue supporting each other on issues affecting each other’s broad interests.
On sensitive issues such as national sovereignty and territorial integrity, the two sides showed solidarity. China reaffirmed its support for Egypt’s legitimate right to safeguard its national sovereignty and territorial integrity, while rejecting external interference in its internal affairs. For its part, Egypt affirmed its adherence to the one-China principle and designated Taiwan as an integral part of China.
In terms of cooperation, the two countries agreed to strengthen coordination in diplomacy, economy, trade, investment, productive use of energy, among others, with a view to accelerating the implementation of China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Egypt’s Vision 2030.
Egypt expressed appreciation for China’s interest in contributing to the country’s economic development and national construction, especially in the sectors of manufacturing, infrastructure, energy, science and technology, aviation and space..
The two sides agreed to strengthen their coordination to implement the outcomes of the first BRICS Expanded Summit, safeguard the common interests of developing countries, and strengthen the solidarity and cooperation of the “Global South”.
Regarding the Palestinian issue, the two sides stressed the importance of a just resolution to restore stability in the Middle East. They called for an end to the Israeli occupation and the establishment of the Palestinian state based on the borders of June 4, 1967, with Al-Quds (occupied East Jerusalem) as its capital.
The joint statement also condemned acts of violence and the targeting of civilians and infrastructure, as flagrant violations of international law and international humanitarian law. The two sides reaffirmed their support for the two-state solution as the only way to resolve the Palestinian issue, expressing their categorical rejection of attempts to displace Palestinians from their lands and stressing their firm support for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.
In conclusion, the joint statement between Egypt and China reflects a common desire to strengthen bilateral ties, promote cooperation in various sectors and uphold common positions on regional and international issues of major importance. These strategic talks highlighted the commitment of the two countries to consolidate their partnership to build a common prosperous and peaceful future.