Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi paid a state visit to South Korea from October 7 to 9, 2026, at the invitation of South Korean President Lee Jae-myung. This visit followed President Lee's trip to Egypt in November 2025, marking 30 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The back-to-back visits reflect the importance both countries place on their bilateral relations.
During the visit, Egypt welcomed South Korea's "S.H.I.N.E." policy towards the Middle East, announced in 2025. South Korea also welcomed Egypt's "strategic balance" policy, introduced by President el-Sisi. Building on their friendly and long-standing relations, the two nations agreed to upgrade their bilateral ties to a strategic partnership, promoting cooperation based on their shared vision of peace and prosperity.
The strategic partnership will focus on deepening and expanding cooperation in five areas. First, the two nations will enhance political exchanges and communication at various levels, including continued dialogue and consultations between their foreign ministries. The first round of strategic dialogue between the foreign ministers took place in Seoul on June 2, 2026.
Second, the countries will continue to foster cooperation in defense, particularly in the defense industry. They will also explore new opportunities for collaboration in areas such as shipbuilding and electric vehicles. The two nations have expressed their commitment to strengthening trade and investment ties, launching negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
Egypt and South Korea will also expand cooperation in various sectors, including energy, infrastructure, advanced technology, artificial intelligence, smart cities, and vocational training. They recognize the strategic importance of Egypt as a gateway to Africa and see potential for trilateral cooperation between Egypt, South Korea, and African nations.
The two countries will continue to implement cultural and educational cooperation programs, including exchanges in the creative industry and historical heritage. They have agreed to designate 2027 as a year of cultural exchanges and will develop educational programs, including scholarships and language training.
Egypt and South Korea have reaffirmed their commitment to working together for peace and stability in the Middle East and the Korean Peninsula. They will continue strategic dialogue on regional and international issues, including the Palestinian question, water security, and freedom of international navigation.
Key points
- Egypt and South Korea have elevated their relations to a strategic partnership.
- The partnership will focus on cooperation in politics, defense, economy, culture, and education.
- The two nations aim to strengthen trade and investment ties, launching negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
