Xi Jinping arrives in Egypt as US sanctions threat looms over China and Egypt's Iran ties

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Egypt as both countries face the threat of US sanctions linked to their financial ties with Iran.

China, a major buyer of Iranian oil, has presented itself as a neutral party in the Middle East conflict and repeatedly called for a lasting ceasefire. Egypt, which has received US military aid for decades, warned of a possible regional escalation after a drone attack struck one of its ports in July.

Xi's visit is aimed at strengthening China's ties with Middle Eastern countries close to Washington ahead of a meeting with US President Donald Trump expected this month. Chinese and Egyptian forces held joint air-combat exercises in August involving China's J-16 fighter jet.

Xi is scheduled to meet Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi on Wednesday, following a visit to China by Jordan's King Abdullah II. Egyptian media reported that the leaders are expected to discuss the war in Gaza, Iran and shipping through the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz.

In an article published Tuesday in Egyptian media, Xi wrote: "I hope to renew our friendship and work together with President Sisi to (...) draw a new map for deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Egypt." China is a major exporter to Egypt, and its trade surplus reached $12 billion in the first seven months of 2026, according to Chinese customs data. Egyptian media reported that the leaders are expected to sign agreements covering artificial intelligence, transport, energy and investment in the Suez Canal Economic Zone.

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I hope to renew our friendship and work together with President Sisi to (...) draw a new map for deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Egypt.