Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and his South Korean counterpart, Lee Jae-myung, have elevated the relations between their countries to a strategic partnership. The move was announced during El-Sisi's visit to Seoul, where he witnessed the signing of several bilateral agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoUs). The partnership aims to strengthen cooperation in areas such as technology, industry, artificial intelligence, infrastructure, and renewable energy.
The visit, which marked El-Sisi's second trip to Seoul, was marked by a ceremonial reception, including the playing of national anthems, a review of the honor guard, and a musical performance by a children's choir. El-Sisi and Lee Jae-myung also held a bilateral meeting, followed by an expanded meeting with the participation of delegations from both countries. The meetings resulted in the signing of several agreements and MoUs aimed at promoting cooperation between the two nations.
El-Sisi emphasized that the strategic partnership between Egypt and South Korea is based on mutual respect and shared benefits. He noted that the partnership is a natural progression of the growing cooperation between the two countries in recent years, particularly in areas such as technology, industry, and renewable energy. The Egyptian President expressed his appreciation for South Korea's developmental experience, which he described as an inspiring model for developing countries.
The two leaders also discussed regional developments, including the escalating tensions in the Middle East. El-Sisi and Lee Jae-myung expressed their commitment to promoting a culture of peace and stability in the region. They also emphasized the importance of ensuring freedom and safety of navigation in the Red Sea, with El-Sisi stressing that the responsibility for securing the waterway lies with the coastal states.
El-Sisi reiterated Egypt's stance on the Palestinian issue, calling for a just and lasting solution based on the two-state solution and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. He also rejected any plans to displace the Palestinian people and expressed concern over the Israeli escalation in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. The Egyptian President welcomed South Korea's potential participation in the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip.
The leaders also touched on the issue of the Nile River, with El-Sisi emphasizing its vital importance to Egypt. He stressed that the Nile is a lifeline for over 100 million Egyptians and that Egypt supports development in Nile Basin countries. However, El-Sisi also stated that Egypt rejects unilateral measures that harm its water rights and violate international law.
The strategic partnership between Egypt and South Korea is expected to open up new avenues for cooperation and investment between the two countries. El-Sisi expressed his hope that the partnership would lead to increased Korean investments in Egypt, particularly in areas such as the automotive, electronics, and petrochemical industries. The Egyptian President also welcomed the potential for increased trade between the two nations.
Key points
- Egypt and South Korea have elevated their relations to a strategic partnership, aiming to strengthen cooperation in areas such as technology, industry, and renewable energy.
