Cairo: Chinese Premier Li Qiang is set to embark on an important two-day official visit to Egypt next week, as confirmed by Foreign Ministry spokesman Mao Ning. The visit, scheduled for July 9-10, comes at the invitation of Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Kamal Madbouly, as stated during a live-streamed news conference in Beijing.

According to Anadolu Agency, Mao emphasized the strong relationship between China and Egypt, describing the two countries as comprehensive strategic partners with robust bilateral ties. The visit aims to elevate these ties to what is described as a 'community with shared future.' Notably, Egypt was the first Arab nation to establish diplomatic relations with Beijing, a fact highlighted by the spokeswoman.

China stands as one of Egypt's top commercial partners, with bilateral trade figures reaching approximately $14 billion annually. Beyond economic ties, the two countries have recently expanded their defense cooperation. In April, Chinese and Egyptian air forces conducted their inaugural joint drill, named 'Eagles of Civilization 2025.' This exercise took place at an air base in Egypt, featuring the deployment of various advanced aircraft, including China's J-10C fighter jet, YU-20 aerial tanker aircraft, and KJ-500 early warning aircraft, alongside Egypt's MiG-29 fighter jets.