"The Chinese side affirmed its recognition of the vital importance of the Nile River to Egypt as its principal lifeline and of Egypt’s legitimate right to safeguard its water and food security and development interests. Both sides called on all Nile Basin countries to comply with international law, including the obligation not to cause harm," read a joint statement issued on the occasion of the Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Cairo,
According to the statement, the two countries further reaffirmed their steadfast support for one another on issues related to their respective core interests.
Egypt affirmed its rejection of any interference in China’s internal affairs, emphasizing that it remains firmly committed to the One-China principle.
Cairo stressed that Taiwan is an integral part of Chinese territory. It affirmed its unwavering support for Beijing’s position on China’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and reunification.
Earlier on Wednesday, President Xi met with President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo, where they held expanded talks attended by delegations from both countries.
During the talks, President El-Sisi underscored the vital importance of the Nile River to Egypt as its main lifeline, as well as Cairo’s legitimate right to protect its water and food security and development interests.
According to the Egyptian presidency, El-Sisi called on all Nile Basin countries to abide by international law, including the principle of avoiding causing harm.
Both leaders talks mark the second day of Xi's trip to Cairo, his first to Egypt since a January 2016 visit in which he addressed Egypt's newly elected parliament.
Egypt, which considers the Nile water issue an existential matter directly linked to its national security and the well-being of its people.
Cairo has repeatedly stressed that it remains committed to cooperating with Nile Basin countries, and supporting development projects that benefit the region while respecting international law.
Egypt has firmly rejected unilateral measures on the Nile that could harm other countries or affect their water security.
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