Shanghai Professor Praises Historic China-Egypt Ties and Economic Growth in Exclusive Interview

A professor at the Middle East Studies Institute at Shanghai International Studies University, Ding Long, described Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Cairo as “historic,” noting that it marks the first such visit in a decade. In an exclusive interview, he highlighted that relations between Cairo and Beijing are currently at their peak, pointing to an increase in trade volume and discussing future avenues for bilateral cooperation.

Reflecting on the significance of the visit, Ding Long explained that the trip—undertaken at the invitation of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi—coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations. He emphasized that the comprehensive strategic partnership, established in 2014, has evolved toward building a shared future for both nations in the new era.

Economic ties have expanded significantly. Bilateral trade grew from US$10.21 billion in 2013 to $20.79 billion in 2025, with China remaining Egypt's top trading partner for fourteen consecutive years. Major collaborative efforts include the China-Egypt TEDA Suez Economic and Trade Cooperation Zone in Ain Sokhna, infrastructure developments by the China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC) in the New Administrative Capital, and technological milestones such as the launch of the EgyptSat 2 satellite.

With Egypt's accession to the BRICS bloc in 2024, bilateral cooperation has integrated further into broader South-South frameworks. Joint initiatives span renewable energy projects like the Benban Solar Park, electric vehicle assembly, and educational exchanges involving thousands of students and trainees across both countries.