China recognised the vital importance of the Nile River to Egypt and supported its legitimate right to water security, while Cairo reaffirmed its strict adherence to the One China policy during talks between President Xi Jinping and President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi.
The diplomatic exchange occurred during a two-day state visit by Xi to mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, which were upgraded to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2014.
Addressing water security, a joint statement showed both nations urging all Nile basin countries to adhere to international law, including the principle of not causing harm.
Conversely, Egypt reiterated its position that Taiwan is an integral part of China, supporting Beijing’s stance on sovereignty, territorial integrity, and reunification.
“I confirm Egypt’s readiness to continue coordination with all regional and international parties, and in particular with China as a pivotal state and permanent member of the Security Council, to enhance efforts aimed at reducing regional tension, advancing development efforts and addressing international challenges that no single state can handle alone,” Sisi said.
The two countries agreed to expand coordination to defend the interests of the Global South and reform international financial institutions. Egypt affirmed its support for China’s presidency of the BRICS bloc in 2027 and its hosting of the 19th BRICS leaders’ summit.
On security, the leaders agreed to accelerate consultations regarding an extradition treaty and coordinate on counter-terrorism, categorically rejecting the linkage of terrorism to any specific religion or ethnicity and opposing double standards.
The visit, which included an official reception with a 21-gun salute, concluded with the signing of multiple memorandums of understanding and an invitation from Xi for Sisi to visit China, which the Egyptian president accepted.
