Egypt and Malaysia have taken significant steps to enhance their diplomatic, economic, and defence relations, aiming to formalize a strategic partnership in the near future. This development follows the recent state visit of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to Cairo on 10th November 2024, where he met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi. The leaders engaged in extensive discussions that underscored shared commitments in areas ranging from trade and security to education and cultural exchange.
Key Talks and Strategic Goals
The high-level discussions culminated in a joint press conference, where both leaders underscored the mutual benefits of a strengthened alliance. Prime Minister Ibrahim expressed gratitude for Egypt’s continued support for humanitarian efforts in the Gaza Strip, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire and the restoration of peace in the Middle East. Ibrahim also invited President Al-Sisi to visit Malaysia, hoping to solidify the cooperation that both nations envision. President Al-Sisi affirmed Egypt’s dedication to deepening bilateral relations with Malaysia. He highlighted the productive talks, held both in private and extended formats, as instrumental in advancing towards a comprehensive strategic partnership that would address shared political and economic interests.
Diplomatic and Economic Ties
The leaders agreed to increase high-level exchanges, setting the groundwork for future cooperation. Malaysia will host the next meeting of the Egypt-Malaysia Joint Commission, where officials will explore further avenues of collaboration. Celebrating the 65th anniversary of diplomatic ties, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to enhance economic cooperation, particularly in emerging sectors such as the digital economy, renewable energy, and manufacturing.
Egypt and Malaysia recognize the potential of trade agreements, specifically with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), which could open new markets and boost trade flows. Shared principles of free and fair trade are at the foundation of their economic partnership, with both countries aiming to stimulate economic growth, increase job opportunities, and improve infrastructure.
Security and Defence Cooperation
In the realm of defence and security, Egypt and Malaysia have pledged to reinforce their cooperation through information-sharing, joint training, and counterterrorism initiatives. The establishment of a Malaysian military attaché office in Cairo, set for May 2024, signals Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening defense ties with Egypt. This cooperation will include tackling transnational issues such as cybersecurity threats, cryptocurrency fraud, and other cross-border crimes.
Education and Cultural Exchange
Educational cooperation forms a cornerstone of Egypt-Malaysia relations, particularly in higher education and training. Malaysia expressed appreciation for Egypt’s initiative to increase scholarship opportunities for Malaysian students in Egypt. Additionally, both nations have committed to enhancing cultural exchanges, which they see as essential for fostering goodwill and mutual understanding between their peoples. To support academic and cultural ties, the two countries will work to attract students and researchers to engage in cross-cultural studies and collaborative research. Al-Azhar University’s role in educating Malaysian students in Islamic studies was particularly noted by President Al-Sisi as an important bridge between the two nations.
The leaders of Egypt and Malaysia also reiterated their commitment to tackling climate change while balancing environmental goals with economic development. Both countries advocate a pragmatic approach, promoting initiatives that address climate issues without compromising economic stability, thus contributing to global sustainability efforts.
ASEAN and African Union Collaboration
With Egypt’s accession to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation with ASEAN in 2016, both countries have committed to furthering ASEAN-Egypt relations. Malaysia, set to assume the ASEAN chairmanship in 2025, expressed its enthusiasm to work closely with Egypt, leveraging Egypt’s influential position as a founding member of the African Union. By strengthening these interregional connections, Malaysia and Egypt aim to promote peace, stability, and economic cooperation across Asia and Africa.
Middle East Peace and Palestinian Support
A shared priority for both countries is peace and stability in the Middle East. In light of recent escalations, the leaders addressed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and condemned ongoing hostilities. Malaysia extended its appreciation for Egypt’s role in facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza and reaffirmed its support for Palestine’s bid for UN membership, in alignment with United Nations Resolution A/RES/ES10/23. Both leaders condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza and Lebanon, expressing concern over the violations of international law. They jointly called for an immediate ceasefire, support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, and adherence to UN Security Council Resolution 1701, stressing the importance of upholding peace in the broader region.
BRICS Collaboration and Global South Initiatives
The two nations welcomed the recent decision at the 16th BRICS Summit to expand the organization by including partner countries. Malaysia expressed an eagerness to collaborate with Egypt and other BRICS members to champion the interests of the Global South and promote economic justice on a global scale. Egypt’s role in the BRICS framework as a prospective partner also opens new pathways for bilateral and multilateral cooperation, including knowledge-sharing on economic resilience and development.
In pursuit of a more dynamic partnership, Egypt and Malaysia agreed to expedite the signing of pending memorandums of understanding in various sectors. During the visit, President Al-Sisi and Prime Minister Ibrahim witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Egyptian Ministry of Awqaf and the Islamic Development Department of Malaysia, setting the stage for further collaboration in Islamic affairs.
Prime Minister Ibrahim expressed heartfelt appreciation for Egypt’s warm hospitality, stating that this successful visit marks a turning point in Egypt-Malaysia relations. As both countries take strides towards a strategic partnership, they envision a collaborative future marked by economic growth, security, cultural exchange, and joint international advocacy for peace and stability. By fostering this multifaceted relationship, Egypt and Malaysia not only strengthen bilateral ties but also contribute to regional and global progress, positioning themselves as key advocates for cooperation in the Global South.
