Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung on Thursday, 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.
During the meeting, President El-Sisi expressed his gratitude to President Lee for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to him during his second visit to South Korea. El-Sisi also congratulated the South Korean people and government on their National Foundation Day, which falls on October 3, and wished them continued progress and prosperity.
President El-Sisi highlighted the long-standing relations between Egypt and South Korea, which date back to historical periods when trade and culture were exchanged between East Asia and the Middle East through Egypt and South Korea. He noted that the relations between the two countries have witnessed significant growth over the past decade, particularly in areas such as technology, industry, artificial intelligence, infrastructure, and renewable energy.
The two presidents agreed to elevate the relations between their countries to a strategic partnership, which El-Sisi described as a new milestone in their relations. This partnership aims to promote cooperation in various fields, including politics, economy, and development, and to explore new opportunities for collaboration between the two nations.
President El-Sisi also emphasized the importance of the Nile River to Egypt, describing it as a matter of existence for the Egyptian people. He stressed that Egypt supports development in Nile Basin countries but rejects unilateral actions that violate the principle of not causing harm and relevant international law, which could impact Egypt's water rights.
El-Sisi and Lee Jae-myung also discussed regional and global issues, including the situation in the Middle East and the Korean Peninsula. They expressed their agreement on the importance of promoting a culture of peace and supporting stability in the region.
The two leaders witnessed the signing of several agreements and memoranda of understanding between their countries, and they held a joint press conference. President El-Sisi expressed his hope for expanding Korean industrial investments in Egypt, particularly in areas such as the automotive, electronics, petrochemicals, and renewable energy sectors.
Key points
- Egypt and South Korea have agreed to elevate their relations to a strategic partnership to promote cooperation in various fields.
- President El-Sisi emphasized the vital importance of the Nile River to Egypt, describing it as a matter of existence for the Egyptian people.
- The two leaders discussed regional and global issues, including the situation in the Middle East and the Korean Peninsula.
