Beijing — Ashraf AboArafe
“China has voiced strong support for Egypt’s sovereignty over the Suez Canal following controversial comments by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who suggested that American ships should be allowed to use the canal without charge.”, said Lin is spokesperson of Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Trump, writing on his Truth Social account, claimed that U.S. military and commercial vessels “should be allowed to travel, free of charge, through the Panama and Suez Canals,” arguing that these vital waterways “would not exist without the United States of America.” He also stated that he had instructed Secretary of State Marco Rubio to “take care of the situation.”
The remarks sparked backlash in Egypt, where officials and commentators condemned the statement as a challenge to Egyptian sovereignty and a misrepresentation of historical facts.
In response, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian told reporters on Wednesday that China is aware of the relevant reports and emphasized that “Egypt has indisputable sovereignty over and the right to manage and operate the Suez Canal.”
“We firmly support the Egyptian government and people in defending sovereignty and their legitimate rights and interests,” Lin said, adding that China opposes “any acts or statements of bullying.”
The Suez Canal, a strategic maritime corridor connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea, is a vital artery for global trade and a significant source of national revenue for Egypt. The canal has long been under full Egyptian control, particularly since its nationalization in 1956.
