Strengthening Ties: Erdogan's Visit to Egypt and the Focus on Gaza

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan visited Egypt on February 4, 2026, following a trip to Saudi Arabia, marking a significant step in enhancing diplomatic relations between Turkey and Egypt. During his visit, Erdogan met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi to discuss various issues, primarily focusing on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the broader regional stability. The two leaders co-chaired the second meeting of the Türkiye-Egypt High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council, where they signed multiple agreements aimed at bolstering cooperation across sectors such as defense, trade, health, and agriculture.

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A central theme of the discussions was the humanitarian situation in Gaza, which has deteriorated amid ongoing Israeli military actions. Erdogan and el-Sisi condemned recent ceasefire violations and emphasized the need for a comprehensive peace plan to address the humanitarian crisis. Erdogan stated, “Turkey is working with Egypt on initiatives to make peace in Gaza possible and will continue these efforts,” highlighting the urgency of the situation. The leaders also expressed their commitment to coordinating efforts to facilitate humanitarian aid and reconstruction in Gaza.

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In addition to humanitarian concerns, Erdogan and el-Sisi discussed economic cooperation, aiming to increase bilateral trade from approximately $8 billion to $15 billion by 2028. They emphasized the importance of removing obstacles to trade and enhancing investment opportunities, particularly in sectors like energy and maritime security. The Turkish president noted that Egypt is Türkiye's largest trading partner in Africa, and both countries are keen to leverage their geographical advantages for mutual economic benefit.

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The visit also underscored a growing military collaboration between Turkey and Egypt. Both nations have expressed a desire to enhance defense cooperation, including joint military exercises and the potential establishment of a military industrial complex in Egypt, utilizing Turkey's advanced drone technology. This military partnership is seen as a response to perceived threats in the region, particularly from Israel and the United Arab Emirates.

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Despite the positive developments, there are concerns regarding the implications of this rapprochement for regional dynamics. Critics argue that the strengthening of ties between Turkey and Egypt could exacerbate tensions with Israel, particularly given the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has voiced apprehensions about Egypt's military buildup, suggesting that Israel must monitor the situation closely to prevent any potential threats.

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In a joint press conference, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to regional stability and the necessity of a two-state solution for Palestine. El-Sisi emphasized the need for a constructive approach to cooperation, stating, “We must continue developing and enhancing constructive cooperation to reach sustainable political solutions that address the root causes of the crises in the region.”

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Looking ahead, the cooperation between Turkey and Egypt is expected to deepen, particularly in the context of ongoing regional conflicts, including those in Libya and Sudan. Both countries are poised to play a significant role in mediating peace efforts and addressing humanitarian needs in Gaza. The next meeting of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council is scheduled for 2028 in Ankara, where further discussions on these critical issues will continue.

Turkey and Egypt working together on Gaza peace efforts, says Erdogan

• “Turkey is working with Egypt on initiatives to make peace in Gaza possible and will continue these efforts,” — Recep Tayyip Erdogan, President of Turkey

Turkey and Egypt working together on Gaza peace efforts, says Erdogan

• “to reach sustainable political solutions that address the root causes of the crises” — Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, President of Egypt

Türkiye, Egypt work together on Gaza peace efforts: Erdogan

This visit marks a pivotal moment in Turkish-Egyptian relations, reflecting a shared commitment to addressing pressing regional challenges while enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors.

Erdogan heads to Egypt to bolster regional diplomacy, cooperation