China's President Xi Jinping made a state visit to Egypt 1-2 September 2026. Both countries issued joint statements at the end of the visit. Curiously, the English translations of the two statements are different.
Egypt's version published by ahramonline and dated 2 September 2026 is titled "Egypt and China Joint Statement on Deepening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership."
China's version posted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and dated 2 September is titled "Joint Statement between the People's Republic of China and the Arab Republic of Egypt on Further Deepening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership."
Following are the different translations of three sections relating to African issues important to Egypt. While the meaning is essentially the same, there are some important differences in word choice.
China's translation of the section on Nile water:
"Both sides reaffirmed their firm mutual support on issues concerning each other's core interests and major concerns. China emphasized its understanding of the Nile's vital importance as Egypt's main lifeline and its legitimate rights to safeguard its water security, food security, and development interests. Both sides called on all Nile River basin countries to abide by international law, including avoiding harm."
Egypt's translation of the section on Nile water:
"The two sides reaffirmed their firm mutual support on issues concerning each other's core interests and major concerns. The Chinese side affirmed its recognition of the vital importance of the Nile River to Egypt as its principal lifeline and of Egypt's legitimate right to safeguard its water and food security and development interests. Both sides called on all Nile Basin countries to comply with international law, including the obligation not to cause harm."
China's translation of the section on Red Sea security:
"The governance and security of the Red Sea are primarily the responsibility of the Red Sea littoral states. The wishes of these countries should be fully respected. The Red Sea littoral states should strengthen regional cooperation, jointly address challenges, and ensure freedom of navigation and unimpeded international trade."
Egypt's translation of the section on Red Sea security:
"The primary responsibility for the governance and security of the Red Sea rests with its littoral states. The will of those states must be fully respected. Regional cooperation among the littoral states must be strengthened to address common challenges and safeguard freedom of navigation and international trade."
China's translation of the section on Sudan:
"Both sides emphasized that Sudan's sovereignty and territorial integrity should be respected, Sudanese state institutions should be upheld, and interference in its internal affairs should be avoided. Both sides stressed their willingness to work together to achieve a ceasefire in Sudan and initiate a Sudanese-led inclusive political process."
Egypt's translation of the section on Sudan:
"The two sides stressed the need to: Respect Sudan's unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. Preserve Sudan's national institutions. Refrain from interfering in Sudan's internal affairs. Work jointly to end the war in Sudan and launch a comprehensive, Sudanese-owned political process."
