Cairo (TDI): Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Egypt on a rare Middle East visit as Beijing and Cairo face the growing risk of US sanctions over their financial and economic links with Iran.
Xi arrived in Egypt on Tuesday evening, with his visit coming amid a months-long conflict that has severely disrupted trade and economic activity across the region.
The United States has warned of tougher sanctions against countries and financial institutions supporting Iran. Washington has already announced measures targeting Egypt’s Banque Misr operations in the UAE, raising concerns about the wider impact on Egyptian financial institutions.
Analysts say Xi’s visit comes as China’s economic interests in the Middle East face growing pressure because of the conflict between the United States and Iran.
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China is also seeking closer coordination with Egypt on regional affairs. Cairo plays an important diplomatic role in the Middle East and has been involved in mediation between Israel and Palestinian groups.
Beijing and Cairo share similar positions on the Palestinian issue and support the establishment of an independent Palestinian state under a two-state solution.
The visit also comes after Chinese and Egyptian forces held joint air combat exercises in August, involving Chinese J-16 fighter jets. Xi is scheduled to meet Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi on Wednesday. His talks with Sisi are expected to focus on regional security, economic cooperation and the growing impact of the US-Iran conflict.
China has vowed to protect its economic interests in the face of US pressure, while Beijing continues to strengthen ties with countries affected by the widening regional conflict.
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The visit follows a recent trip to Beijing by Jordan’s King Abdullah II. Jordan has also been drawn into the conflict because of its strategic location and its role in hosting US forces.
Xi had told the Jordanian king that China supports the sovereignty and security of countries across the region, signalling Beijing’s continued opposition to actions that could further destabilize the Middle East.
