On February 17, 2016, Foreign Minister Wang Yi sent a message of condolences to Foreign Minister Sameh Shukri of Egypt, extending deep grief for the death of Boutros Boutros-Ghali, former United Nations (UN) Secretary-General and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Egypt, and expressing sincere condolences to Mr. Boutros Boutros-Ghali's families.
Wang Yi noted that Mr. Boutros Boutros-Ghali was an excellent diplomat and international law specialist as well as an old friend of the Chinese people, who had for a long time devoted himself to the development of China-Egypt relations. During his tenure as UN Secretary-General, he made significant contributions to resolving hotspot conflicts, improving human welfare and strengthening the UN's role. He also vigorously boosted the cooperation between China and the UN. I felt deeply grieved for his passing.
Wang Yi stated that at present China-Egypt relations are at a stage of rapid development. President Xi Jinping made a successful state visit to Egypt last month, chartering the course for and injecting new vitality into the development of bilateral relations. I would like to work with Your Excellency to practically implement the vital consensus reached by the two heads of state, and promote China-Egypt comprehensive strategic partnership and practical cooperation in all fields for constant development.