Xi Takes Swipe at US in Egypt, Urging New Mideast Security Order
Xi Jinping called on Middle Eastern nations to consider building a new security order free of external interference as he visited Egypt, sharpening the language previously used by the Chinese leader in support of a realignment away from the US.
During his visit to Egypt, Chinese President Xi Jinping urged Middle Eastern nations to establish a new security order unencumbered by external influence, as reported by the Chinese Foreign Ministry. Speaking alongside Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo, Xi emphasized, "The people in the Middle East should be the masters of their own affairs." This statement appeared to be a critique of the United States, hinting at a desire for the Middle East to forge its own path.
Xi's appeal echoes the sentiments increasingly propagated by Chinese academics, who argue that the ongoing Iran war is eroding trust in the US-led security framework and fostering a push for alternative regional security arrangements. This comes as several Middle Eastern countries become increasingly wary of Washington's assurances, providing Beijing an opportunity to expand its sway in the region.
The Chinese leader's advocacy for national autonomy was encapsulated in a four-point plan, which included voicing support for major powers to dispense with double standards, according to the official statement. Xi also advocated for a stronger role for the United Nations in regional affairs and pledged to collaborate with Middle Eastern nations to safeguard international shipping routes and foster regional development.
Regarding Palestine, Xi reiterated that the issue remains at the heart of Middle Eastern conflicts and should not be overlooked or disregarded. Egypt, a significant recipient of US military and financial aid, is a crucial US ally in the region. Meanwhile, Washington and Beijing are preparing for a summit between Xi and US President Donald Trump later this month, with a looming tariff truce set to expire in November unless renewed.
In a separate development, Egypt announced plans to expand its industrial zone within the Suez Canal Economic Zone, with sectors including renewable energy, automotive manufacturing, textiles, and chemical fibers set to benefit. China and Egypt agreed to enhance cooperation in green energy, electric vehicles, aerospace, and the digital economy, among other areas. Over 20 cooperation agreements were signed between the two nations.
Notably, China has been instrumental in several significant Egyptian infrastructure projects, and the country has emerged as a significant trading partner since Xi's last visit in 2016. Before concluding his visit, Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan joined Sisi and Egypt's first lady for a tour of the newly inaugurated Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo.
Written by urgent.news from Live Mint's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
