Cairo: (RightNow) Chinese President Xi Jinping, during his visit to Egypt, urged Middle Eastern countries to oppose foreign interference and consider restructuring the region’s security system.

This marks Xi Jinping’s first visit to the Middle East in four years, occurring as U.S. allies in the region reassess strategic relations. Ongoing conflicts have impacted trade and the economy for months.

Egypt, a major U.S. defense partner, is increasing economic and military cooperation with China. In Cairo, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi welcomed the Chinese leader.

Xi Jinping stated that regional countries should take control of their own destiny and work on forming a new regional security framework. China is ready to collaborate with regional nations to protect maritime trade routes.

It is noteworthy that Egypt receives $1.3 billion in annual military aid from the U.S., but has strengthened ties with China in recent years.