Xi Jinping’s first state visit to Egypt in a decade comes as China seeks a larger role in a Middle East transformed by the Iran war, the Gaza conflict and growing uncertainty over US influence. With Egypt controlling the strategically vital Suez Canal, deepening economic ties with Beijing and even expanding military cooperation, the relationship increasingly extends beyond trade. Is Cairo simply hedging between the world’s two superpowers, or is China positioning itself as a genuine alternative diplomatic and security partner for the region?

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