Chinese leader Xi Jinping arrived in Cairo to deepen ties with Egypt, a traditional U.S. security partner, as Beijing expands its role in the Middle East. Welcomed by children wearing his face and a ceremonial dance, Xi hailed China and Egypt as “close brothers” united against imperialism. His visit comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and the United States, raising questions about Washington’s reliability.

Egypt receives over $1.3 billion in annual U.S. military aid but is diversifying its partnerships, with trade between the two nations surpassing $20 billion last year. Xi met with President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi as joint military exercises and infrastructure projects—including a new administrative capital and light rail—highlight growing cooperation. Chinese firms have also invested heavily in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, pledging $1.15 billion in new industrial projects.

Professor Ding Long of the Shanghai International Studies University noted that countries must diversify dependencies, stating, “You can’t put all your eggs in one basket.” Xi’s visit, marking 70 years of diplomatic relations, also precedes an expected meeting with Donald Trump, signaling China’s intent to expand influence even within U.S. spheres.