On June 8, 2014, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi took the oath of office, marking the beginning of a challenging journey to rebuild Egypt on all levels, including politics, military, security, economy, and society. Over the past 12 years, Egypt has undergone significant transformations, emerging as a different country in terms of shape and substance.
President El-Sisi began by correcting the negative image of Egypt abroad, redrawing the country's foreign policy to make it a model for building a capable and effective state. This policy, according to Dr. Badr Abdelatty, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, is based on a clear doctrine of "strategic balance," emphasizing national decision-making independence and balanced relations with various powers based on national interest.
President El-Sisi's foreign visits have been extensive, with trips to the East, West, North, and South to establish strong strategic partnerships based on mutual respect and non-interference in domestic affairs. Notably, his visits to Arab allies in the Gulf region and the People's Republic of China led to the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership between Egypt and China in December 2014.
The partnership with China has led to a significant increase in Chinese companies operating in Egypt, with over 3,300 companies currently invested in the country. This growth is attributed to Egypt's stable security, political, and social climate, which has attracted investments. President El-Sisi's efforts to promote peace in the region culminated in the Sharm El-Sheikh Peace Summit.
The Sharm El-Sheikh Peace Summit brought together leaders from major countries to address the Palestinian issue, end occupation, and provide humanitarian aid to Palestinians. The summit resulted in an agreement on a ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, signed by President El-Sisi, US President Donald Trump, and Qatari Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
Egypt's relations with European countries have also flourished, with President El-Sisi attending the first Egyptian-European Summit in Brussels. The summit marked a significant milestone in Egypt's relations with Europe, with leaders welcoming President El-Sisi and acknowledging Egypt's regional role, particularly in preventing irregular migration to Europe through Egyptian shores.
President El-Sisi's diplomatic efforts have extended to Africa, with numerous visits to countries on the continent and hosting leaders from various African nations. These efforts have enabled Egypt to regain its influential position in Africa by establishing balanced relations and promoting strategic partnerships in areas such as investment, economic cooperation, and development.
Key points
- President El-Sisi's efforts have contributed to Egypt's transformation over 12 years.
- Egypt has established strategic partnerships with countries like China.
- The country has regained its influential position in Africa.
