CAIRO, 24 October 2024 — Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Chinese President Xi Jinping highlighted the urgent need for de-escalation in the Middle East during talks on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, on October 23. Both leaders emphasized that immediate measures are essential to prevent the outbreak of regional conflict.
In their discussions, Sisi and Xi stressed the importance of a comprehensive resolution to the Palestinian issue, advocating for a political process aimed at establishing a Palestinian state in line with international resolutions. They underscored that this solution is crucial for achieving lasting security in the region.
Strengthening Egyptian-Chinese Relations
During the meeting, Sisi expressed Egypt’s eagerness to enhance collaboration with China in areas such as manufacturing and technology transfer. He acknowledged China’s significant involvement in key infrastructure projects within Egypt, particularly in transportation and railways.
The two leaders celebrated the progress made since the establishment of their comprehensive strategic partnership in 2014, reaffirming their commitment to build on the momentum created by Sisi’s state visit to China earlier this year.
Egypt’s BRICS Membership
This summit marks Egypt’s first participation in the BRICS bloc since becoming a member earlier in 2024. Sisi highlighted Egypt’s goal to increase investment and foreign flows through its BRICS membership and foster economic cooperation with fellow member states.
In a speech at the summit, Sisi reiterated Egypt’s support for enhanced collaboration among BRICS nations to tackle global challenges, including food security and access to concessional financing.
Throughout the summit, Sisi also engaged in discussions with several world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, focusing on the ongoing regional tensions.
The BRICS organization includes major developing economies such as Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, along with newer members like Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
