When French President Emmanuel Macron visited Egypt and inaugurated the new campus of Senghor University in Borg El Arab, the moment carried more meaning than a ceremonial opening. It reflected a relationship between Cairo and Paris that has grown steadily stronger in recent years, reaching beyond politics into education, trade and regional stability.
The visit came at a sensitive time for the Middle East, as conflicts and uncertainty continue to shape the region. Against this backdrop, Egypt and France appeared eager to present a shared message: support for dialogue, political solutions and regional calm.
The ties between the two countries stretch back centuries. Over time, those connections evolved into a broader partnership built on diplomacy, education and economic cooperation.
Today, the relationship looks more strategic than ever.
Under President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and President Macron, bilateral ties have witnessed rapid development, particularly since 2014. Macron’s repeated visits to Egypt since 2017 have highlighted France’s growing recognition of Egypt’s regional influence and its role in maintaining stability in the Middle East and Africa.
The recent visit to Alexandria added another layer to this growing partnership. The opening of the new Senghor University campus was not simply about education. For many observers, it symbolised Egypt’s ambition to position itself as a regional hub for international learning and investment.
Economic figures also tell the story of closer cooperation. Trade exchange between Egypt and France reached nearly 3 billion dollars in 2025. Egyptian exports to France rose to 1.14 billion dollars, driven by fertilisers, electrical equipment, fruit, vegetables and ready-made garments. French exports to Egypt included pharmaceuticals, machinery, vehicles and agricultural products.
Investment has also expanded sharply. French investments in Egypt climbed to more than 767 million dollars during the 2024/2025 fiscal year, while Egyptian investments in France also recorded significant growth. Behind those numbers are companies, workers and families whose lives are increasingly linked across the Mediterranean.
For Egyptians living in France, estimated at around 580,000 people, the relationship is deeply personal. Many move between both cultures with ease, carrying languages, traditions and business ties from one shore to another.
Speaking to The Egyptian Gazette, Ayman Salama, an expert in international relations, believes the relationship has moved far beyond traditional cooperation. He says Egypt and France are now approaching “a fully integrated strategic alliance”, especially in areas linked to regional security, diplomacy and development.
According to Salama, Paris sees Cairo as a central partner in preserving stability across the Middle East and Africa. He notes that both countries share similar views on the importance of political solutions, diplomacy and respect for international law in dealing with regional crises.
He also describes Macron’s recent visit and his meeting with President Sisi as “a qualitative shift” in bilateral relations, particularly after the announcement of a strategic partnership between the two countries last year.
