Main Drivers for Egypt Participation in the Belt and Road Initiative

Turbulent financial climate in Egypt forced this country to diversify its economic and political relations and renew its relations with East Asian countries, especially China, while maintaining its relationship with U.S. and other Western countries. Egypt's participation in the Belt Road project is the main driver for advancing economic and political relations with China. Cairo is planning to avoid challenging political relations and emphasize on economic benefits to help with Belt and Road Initiative to develop Suez Canal and other projects like railroad and the new capital. Expanding bilateral relations through Belt and Road Initiative resulted in signing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and China becoming the biggest goods exporter to Egypt. China needs new markets and outsourcing to continue its economic growth. It could introduce many new projects through the Initiative and justify its expanse in the world. Today, China and Egypt are closer than ever and their leaders use terms like civilization to deepen ties and mix with economic projects.