China Lauds Decade of Strategic Sino-Egyptian Ties Reinforced by Belt and Road Initiative

In a landmark statement at the Chinese embassy in Cairo, the acting Ambassador, Chang Tao, celebrated the significant strides made in the Sino-Egyptian relationship since the Belt and Road Initiative's launch in 2013. Guided by the vision of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt and President Xi Jinping of China, the past decade has seen a robust synergy in infrastructure, technology, and economic growth.

During a press conference on Thursday, Chang highlighted the expansive investment and economic cooperation between the two nations, signaling even greater potential for future partnerships. He noted China's appreciation for Egypt's contribution to Middle Eastern peace and outlined key collaborative achievements that exemplify the partnership's depth.

Among these achievements, the joint construction of the tallest skyscraper in Africa within Egypt’s New Administrative Capital stands out, along with the development of a critical railway line and the joint satellite launch initiative. Furthering this technological collaboration, Chang announced an upcoming project to launch a reconnaissance satellite later this year.

The partnership has also led to the construction of the region’s largest vaccine storage facility and a major fiberglass manufacturing plant, with Chinese companies contributing to significant infrastructure developments including the inauguration of Abu Qir Port this year.

Highlighting the deepening economic ties, Chang spoke of Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly's participation in the Belt and Road Forum, where he met with President Xi to discuss milestones achieved and future collaboration.

The launch of $500 million worth of Panda Bonds by Egypt was recognized as a milestone towards a greener economy. Additionally, a novel debt-for-development exchange agreement with China marks a first in Sino-foreign relations, signifying the close-knit bond between the nations.

Chang outlined numerous memorandums and framework agreements aimed at fostering cooperation across various sectors, from civil aviation to cutting-edge technology development, reinforcing the strategic alignment between the two countries.

China's continued support for Egypt’s investment landscape was underscored with the impending establishment of a Chinese bank branch in Egypt, in coordination with the Egyptian Central Bank.

Chang also conveyed his nation’s support for Egypt’s newfound role in the BRICS group, ready to back Egypt's influence in multilateral institutions such as the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization to ensure equity for developing countries.

Culminating the address, Chang heralded the start of direct flights between Cairo and Shanghai commencing on November 16, aiming to surpass pre-pandemic tourism figures and further solidify the bilateral relations.