China's Xi tells Middle East to be ‘masters of their own destiny’ amid Iran war
Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Cairo to advocate for a new regional security architecture and increased economic cooperation with Egypt. The move signals Beijing's intent to expand its influence in the Middle East while encouraging regional nations to reduce reliance on external powers.
Why it matters
This highlights a significant shift in global power dynamics as China actively challenges traditional US influence in the Middle East during a period of regional conflict.
Chinese President Xi Jinping called on Middle Eastern countries to oppose external interference and consider reshaping the region's security order during talks with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in Cairo on Wednesday, as Beijing seeks to expand its influence amid the US war against Iran.Xi, on his first visit to the Middle East in four years, said countries in the region should be “masters of their own destiny” and explore a new regional “security architecture”, according to China's state news agency Xinhua.The Chinese leader also said Beijing was ready to work with countries in the region to safeguard shipping routes, an issue that has gained greater significance after the conflict disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb.Egypt and China expand security, economic cooperationXi was welcomed by Sisi with a military ceremony in Cairo.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in