Xi’s Egypt Visit Tests Cairo’s Economic Balancing Act

President Xi Jinping's visit to Egypt, conducted amidst a complex geopolitical and economic landscape, reflects the global dynamics of diplomacy between major powers. The meeting between Presidents Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and Xi Jinping not only solidified traditional commercial and military ties but also opened new avenues for cooperation in advanced technological areas such as artificial intelligence (AI). Agreements signed during the visit, including the announcement of a third phase of the Suez Canal Economic Zone, reinforce the intentions of both Egyptian and Chinese governments to promote regional economic development. However, Huawei’s proposed supply of AI chips for a data center in Egypt puts into question Cairo's delicate balance between its relations with China and the United States. This balance is crucial not only for Egypt but also for regional and global economic stability, as the country's decisions can significantly influence trade and technological flows in the Middle East and North Africa.