Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi arrived in South Korea on October 7, 2026, for a three-day state visit at the invitation of South Korean President Lee Jae-myung. The visit is a reciprocal gesture following President Lee's trip to Egypt in November 2025 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. This exchange of visits highlights the significance both countries place on their bilateral relations.
Upon his arrival, President el-Sisi was greeted with a warm welcome ceremony. A group of South Korean children sang the song "Fiha Haga Helwa" (There's Something Sweet), written by Egyptian lyricist Ayman Bahgat Qamar and composed by musician Omar Khairat. The song was performed by singer Reham Abdel Hakim. The use of this song in the welcoming ceremony was a notable gesture of cultural exchange and friendship.
Ayman Bahgat Qamar took to social media to express his delight at the song's use in the welcoming ceremony. He wrote on his Facebook account, "Indeed, there's something sweet... The most a poet wishes for is that his words remain alive and transcend local borders." He extended his gratitude and affection to the people of South Korea.
The state visit by President el-Sisi aims to strengthen bilateral ties between Egypt and South Korea. The two nations have been working closely in various fields, and this visit is expected to further enhance cooperation. The visit also provides an opportunity for discussions on regional and international issues of mutual interest.
President el-Sisi's visit to South Korea comes at a time when both countries are seeking to expand their economic and strategic partnerships. Egypt is looking to attract foreign investment and technology, while South Korea is interested in exploring new markets and resources. The visit is likely to result in agreements and memoranda of understanding in areas such as trade, investment, and technology.
The warm welcome extended to President el-Sisi reflects the growing relations between Egypt and South Korea. The use of "Fiha Haga Helwa" in the ceremony was a symbolic gesture of friendship and cultural exchange. As President el-Sisi continues his engagements in South Korea, the focus will be on strengthening ties and exploring new avenues of cooperation.
The visit is set to conclude on October 9, 2026, with President el-Sisi expected to return to Egypt. The outcomes of the visit are anticipated to have a positive impact on bilateral relations and contribute to the growth of cooperation between the two nations.
Key points
- Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi was welcomed in South Korea with a song "Fiha Haga Helwa" written by Ayman Bahgat Qamar.
- The visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties and enhance cooperation between Egypt and South Korea.
- The two nations have been working closely in various fields, and this visit is expected to further enhance cooperation.
