Xi Jinping lands in Egypt as Iran war raises US sanctions risks

CAIRO: Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Egypt on Tuesday for a high-profile state visit, bringing Beijing’s growing engagement with the Middle East into sharper focus as the region grapples with the fallout from the war involving Iran.

Xi was received at Cairo International Airport by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Egyptian officials. The visit, his first to Egypt in a decade, comes as both China and Egypt face potential pressure from Washington over their economic and financial links with Iran.

The two-day visit is taking place against the backdrop of months of regional conflict that has disrupted trade, energy markets and major shipping routes. Washington has expanded its economic pressure campaign against Iran and warned that entities supporting Tehran could face further restrictions.

Egypt has already been affected by the US measures. Washington recently targeted the UAE operations of Banque Misr, an Egyptian state-owned bank, over alleged Iran-related financial activity. The move has raised concerns about the wider impact on Egypt’s financial sector.

For China, the stakes are also significant. Beijing remains a major buyer of Iranian oil and has sought to maintain economic ties with Tehran while presenting itself as a voice for dialogue and regional stability. Analysts say Xi’s visit reflects China’s desire to protect its economic interests while expanding its diplomatic influence across the Middle East.

During his visit, Xi is expected to hold talks with President Sisi on bilateral relations, regional conflicts and broader international issues. Discussions are expected to include the Gaza war, Iran and disruptions affecting shipping through the Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz.

China and Egypt have also developed closer economic and strategic ties in recent years. The two countries are marking 70 years of diplomatic relations, while Chinese investment in Egypt has expanded across infrastructure, manufacturing and energy.

Egypt’s strategic location and role in regional diplomacy make it an important partner for Beijing. Cairo has maintained relations with Washington while also strengthening ties with China and other global powers, giving it room to pursue a more independent foreign policy.

Both countries support the establishment of an independent Palestinian state and a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Xi’s arrival therefore carries significance beyond bilateral relations. With the Middle East facing unprecedented economic and security pressures, his meeting with Sisi could signal how China intends to deepen its role in a region increasingly shaped by competing global powers.