Egypt and China take united stance on Nile water, Palestine and Taiwan after leaders meet in Cairo

Egypt and China reaffirmed a unified position on several critical regional and global issues during a high-level meeting in Cairo on Wednesday, following a state visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping. The two leaders emphasized the importance of safeguarding Egypt's rights over Nile waters, supporting efforts to stabilize the situation in Gaza, and upholding the one-China policy regarding Taiwan. The discussions took place amid growing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and Africa. President Abdel Fattah El Sisi received Mr. Xi at the Ittihadiya Presidential Palace in Cairo with a full state ceremony, including a mounted honor guard, a 21-gun salute, and the playing of both nations' national anthems. The visit marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Egypt and China, which began in 1956 when Egypt became the first Arab and African country to recognize the People's Republic of China. During extended talks, the two leaders addressed a range of bilateral and multilateral concerns. A joint statement released after the meetings highlighted the shared view that the Palestinian cause is the central issue in the Middle East. Both nations called for the immediate consolidation of the current ceasefire in Gaza, ensuring unrestricted humanitarian aid reaches the region, and urged the return of the Palestinian Authority to the Gaza Strip "at the earliest opportunity." They condemned any attempts to displace Palestinians from their lands under any pretext and expressed concern over recent escalations by Israel in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, particularly involving settler violence, land seizures, and expansion of settlements. The statement also underscored support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). China explicitly recognized the significance of the Nile River to Egypt, describing it as "a vital lifeline" and affirming Egypt's "legitimate right to protect its water and food security." This acknowledgment aligns with Egypt's longstanding legal arguments against Ethiopia's Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam project, which has been a point of contention between the two nations. Both leaders urged all Nile Basin countries to adhere to international law, emphasizing the obligation not to cause harm to downstream nations. The two nations also pledged to uphold Sudan's sovereignty and territorial integrity, committing to collaborative efforts to end the ongoing conflict in the country and initiate a Sudanese-led political process. Regarding the Red Sea, they stated that governance and security in the waterway are primarily the responsibility of the coastal states. Egypt reiterated its opposition to foreign interference in China's internal affairs and reaffirmed its adherence to the one-China principle, recognizing Taiwan as an integral part of China. The joint declaration further noted Egypt's support for China's positions on matters related to its sovereignty and territorial integrity, including the goal of achieving national reunification. During the visit, five formal agreements were signed at the Ittihadiya Palace, focusing on aligning Egypt's Vision 2030 development strategy with China's Belt and Road Initiative. Additional cooperation documents covered broader economic and technical collaboration, industrial and supply chain partnerships, information technology, and an agreement between the Suez Canal Economic Zone and China's Ministry of Commerce. These agreements aim to strengthen economic ties and foster mutual growth between the two nations. Following the signing of these agreements, an official luncheon was held, underscoring the depth of the relationship between Egypt and China. As the two leaders continue to engage on multiple fronts, their partnership is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping regional dynamics and global trade networks.