Egypt is making waves on the global stage by strengthening its partnership with China, reshaping its economy through massive development projects. This collaboration was highlighted during the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, where Egypt officially joined the BRICS group, signaling its intent to influence the future of the global economy.
Speaking at the summit, Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, on behalf of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, emphasized Egypt’s vision for stronger international cooperation. He called for support in financing and technology transfer to developing nations as key to achieving sustainable development and eradicating poverty. He stressed the importance of working together in areas like infrastructure, industry, energy, and cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence.
The partnership with China stands out as a cornerstone of Egypt’s development efforts. China, a founding member of BRICS, has been instrumental in supporting Egypt across various sectors, offering a model of collaboration aligned with sustainability goals.
One of the most impressive examples of this cooperation is Egypt’s new Administrative Capital. The China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC), one of the world’s leading construction firms, is constructing multiple major developments, including a towering 400-meter-high iconic tower. The company is also managing the Central Business District, showcasing the depth of this growing partnership.
Beyond the capital, the Suez Canal Economic Zone has become a hub of collaboration. Developed in partnership with China, the zone now hosts over 160 Chinese companies, highlighting industrial integration and strengthening cross-border supply chains.
The transport sector is also seeing transformative projects. China and Egypt have collaborated on a $10 billion electric train connecting Cairo to the new capital and a 543-kilometer high-speed rail network, both contributing to Egypt’s vision for smart infrastructure.
In the field of energy, Chinese companies have played a crucial role in developing the Benban Solar Park in Aswan, one of the largest solar complexes in the world. Chinese renewable energy firm TBEA has built three stations producing a combined 186 megawatts. The entire park is expected to generate around 2 gigawatts through nearly 40 stations, emphasizing a partnership that goes far beyond trade.
The digital and communications sectors are experiencing growth through agreements with firms like Huawei and ZTE. A joint investment fund worth $300 million has been established to support artificial intelligence and chip technologies, moving Egypt toward becoming a regional digital hub.
Agriculture hasn’t been left out. China and Egypt are collaborating to transfer agricultural technology, modernize irrigation systems, and reclaim land, boosting food security and resilience against climate change.
These achievements are the result of strong political will and strategic agreements between the two nations. A significant milestone was the signing of the Executive Program for the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership from 2024 to 2028 during President El-Sisi’s visit to Beijing in January 2024. This agreement marks a new phase in bilateral relations.
China also benefits from this partnership through expanded access to African markets, integration into the Belt and Road Initiative, and opportunities to export its technologies and expertise, all within a balanced framework of mutual interests.
Trade between China and Egypt has grown significantly, reaching approximately $15.7 billion in early 2024, up from $11.9 billion in 2022. Chinese investments now make up an estimated 30 to 40 percent of Egypt’s total foreign direct investment, directly supporting job creation, industrial modernization, and advancements in key sectors like clean energy, transportation, and telecommunications.
At the BRICS Summit, Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized the importance of independence, self-reliance, and responsibility in building global consensus. He announced the creation of a joint research center focused on “new quality productive forces” and unveiled a scholarship initiative for BRICS nations to support talent development, reinforcing China’s commitment to inclusive development within the BRICS framework.
The China-Egypt partnership is not just reshaping Egypt’s economy; it’s setting an example for the Global South on how collaborative efforts can lead to sustainable growth and development.
