Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi is set to visit Turkey for the first time in 12 years, marking a significant step towards mending relations between the two regional powers. The visit, scheduled for September 4, 2024, comes after years of strained ties following the ouster of Egypt’s former President Mohamed Morsi in 2013. This historic trip aims to strengthen diplomatic and economic cooperation between Egypt and Turkey, signaling a new chapter in their bilateral relations.
Rebuilding Diplomatic Ties
The relationship between Egypt and Turkey has been fraught with tension since 2013, when then-army chief Sisi led the ouster of Mohamed Morsi, an ally of Turkey and Egypt’s first democratically elected president. The political fallout led to a significant deterioration in relations, with both countries recalling their ambassadors and engaging in a war of words. However, recent years have seen a thawing of relations, with both nations expressing a desire to rebuild diplomatic ties.
President Sisi’s visit to Turkey follows Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s trip to Cairo in February 2024, his first visit to Egypt since 2012. These high-level exchanges are part of a broader diplomatic effort to ease tensions and foster cooperation. During his visit, President Sisi is expected to hold talks with President Erdogan on various issues, including regional security, economic collaboration, and cultural exchange.
The Turkish presidency’s communications office has stated that the leaders will review bilateral relations and discuss potential joint steps to further develop cooperation. This includes addressing current regional and global issues, such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the situation in Gaza. The visit is seen as a crucial step in solidifying the renewed partnership between Egypt and Turkey.
Economic and Strategic Cooperation
One of the primary focuses of President Sisi’s visit will be to enhance economic cooperation between Egypt and Turkey. Both countries have expressed a commitment to boosting trade and investment, with a goal of increasing bilateral trade to $15 billion in the short term from the current $10 billion. This ambitious target reflects the potential for economic synergy between the two nations.
During the visit, Egypt and Turkey are expected to sign around 20 agreements covering various sectors, including energy, defense, tourism, health, culture, and education. These agreements aim to deepen commercial ties and promote mutual growth. Notably, there will be a focus on renewable energy and liquefied natural gas (LNG), areas where both countries see significant opportunities for collaboration.
The visit also underscores the strategic importance of cooperation in defense and security. Turkey has indicated its willingness to provide Egypt with armed drones, enhancing Egypt’s defense capabilities. Additionally, both nations are likely to discuss joint efforts to combat terrorism and ensure regional stability. The strengthening of defense ties is a testament to the evolving partnership between Egypt and Turkey.
Regional and Global Implications
President Sisi’s visit to Turkey has broader implications for regional and global politics. The warming of relations between Egypt and Turkey is a positive development for the Middle East, a region often characterized by conflict and rivalry. Improved ties between these two influential countries can contribute to greater stability and cooperation in addressing regional challenges.
The visit also highlights the role of diplomacy in resolving longstanding disputes and fostering collaboration. By engaging in dialogue and building on shared interests, Egypt and Turkey are setting an example for other nations in the region. The international community will be closely watching the outcomes of this visit, as it could pave the way for further diplomatic breakthroughs in the Middle East.
In conclusion, President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s visit to Turkey marks a significant milestone in the efforts to rebuild and strengthen relations between Egypt and Turkey. The focus on economic cooperation, strategic partnerships, and regional stability underscores the importance of this historic trip. As both nations work towards a brighter future, the visit serves as a reminder of the power of diplomacy in bridging divides and fostering mutual growth.
