Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Cairo on Saturday, marking the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Egypt since 1997. The visit aims to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries, particularly in the areas of defence ties, counterterrorism cooperation, and efforts to combat radicalisation and extremism. The partnership was announced during Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s visit to India in January this year. Both countries are committed to promoting peace and tolerance.
During his visit, PM Modi met with Egypt’s Grand Mufti Shawki Ibrahim Allam, who appreciated the Prime Minister’s leadership in fostering inclusivity and pluralism. The meeting focused on the strong cultural and people-to-people relations between India and Egypt, as well as issues related to social and religious harmony in society and countering extremism and radicalisation.
The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi, mentioned that PM Modi informed Allam about India’s plans to set up a Centre of Excellence in IT at the Dar-al-Ifta under the Ministry of Social Justice of Egypt. This initiative showcases the commitment of both countries to promoting the values of tolerance and inclusiveness while addressing extremist ideologies.
PM Modi’s visit also included a meeting with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly. The discussions primarily focused on trade and investment, renewable energy, green hydrogen, IT, digital payment platforms, pharma, and people-to-people ties. The leaders expressed their intention to strengthen cooperation between their countries’ defence industries, including the exchange of technology and co-production. India and Egypt are currently exploring the possibility of allocating a special land area for Indian industries in the Suez Canal Economic Zone.
Egypt, as one of the most influential Arab countries and the most populous Arab nation, has shown understanding of India’s position on Jammu and Kashmir. Although Egypt did not participate in the recent G20 meeting in Srinagar, it is among the special invitees for this year’s G20 Summit, which will be held in India in September. Egypt’s support for India’s position on terrorism has led to intensified cooperation under their joint working group on counter-terrorism, facilitating a meaningful exchange of information.
The Prime Minister’s visit to Egypt strengthens the longstanding ties between the two countries, opening new horizons for cooperation and mutually beneficial partnerships. The establishment of an IT Centre of Excellence in Egypt represents a significant step towards enhancing technological collaboration. The discussions on trade, investment, renewable energy, and defence cooperation further solidify the foundation of the strategic partnership. With Egypt’s support for India’s stance on terrorism, both countries are committed to promoting peace, stability, and inclusive development in the region.
