Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung on October 8, 2026, at the Korean Presidential Office in Seoul. The meeting was marked by a formal reception ceremony, which included the playing of the national anthems of both countries, a review of the honor guard, and a musical performance by a children's choir.
The two leaders held a bilateral meeting followed by an expanded session with the participation of delegations from both countries. After the talks, they witnessed the signing of several agreements and memoranda of understanding between the two nations. A joint press conference was also held, during which President El-Sisi expressed his gratitude to President Lee for the warm welcome and hospitality.
President El-Sisi highlighted the historical ties between Egypt and South Korea, which date back to ancient times when trade and culture were exchanged between the regions of East Asia and the Middle East through Egypt and Korea. He noted that the relations between the two countries have developed significantly over the past decade, particularly in areas such as technology, industry, artificial intelligence, infrastructure, and renewable energy.
The two leaders agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a strategic partnership, marking a new era in their cooperation. This move reflects the importance both countries attach to pushing their relations forward and opening up new avenues for Egyptian-Korean cooperation in various fields, including politics, economy, and development.
President El-Sisi praised South Korea's development experience, industrialization, and technological advancements, which he said serve as an inspiration for developing countries seeking sustainable development. He expressed Egypt's desire to benefit from Korean expertise and expand cooperation between the two countries, particularly in areas such as industrialization, investment, and technology.
The talks also touched on regional and international issues, including the situation in the Middle East and the Korean Peninsula. President El-Sisi emphasized Egypt's efforts to restore security and stability in the region, ensure freedom and safety of navigation in international sea lanes, and prevent the escalation of current crises.
President El-Sisi and President Lee Jae-myung also discussed the importance of maintaining stability in the Red Sea region and the Nile River basin. Egypt's president stressed the need to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries in the region and to adhere to international law in managing shared water resources, including the Nile River, which is vital to the Egyptian people.
Key points
- Egypt and South Korea have upgraded their bilateral relations to a strategic partnership.
- The two leaders discussed regional and international issues, including the situation in the Middle East and the Korean Peninsula.
- President El-Sisi praised South Korea's development experience and expressed Egypt's desire to benefit from Korean expertise.
