26th June 2023,Mumbai: India and Egypt have taken a significant step forward in their bilateral relationship by upgrading it to a strategic partnership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi signed an agreement to enhance cooperation in various sectors, including security, trade, investment, and technology. The elevation of their relationship demonstrates the growing importance of their ties and the shared commitment to deepen collaboration for mutual benefit.
During their discussions at Ittihadia Palace in Cairo, Modi and Sisi reviewed the full range of bilateral relations and expressed their intent to strengthen economic and cultural linkages. The signing of three memorandums of understanding (MoUs) in agriculture, archaeology and antiquities, and competition law further underscores the commitment to expanding cooperation in specific areas of interest.
To commemorate the visit, Sisi conferred the Order of the Nile, Egypt’s highest state honor, on Modi. This gesture highlights the warmth and affection between the two nations and reflects the deepening bond between Egypt and India.Modi’s visit to Egypt follows his talks with Egyptian counterpart Mostafa Madbouly and the “India Unit,” a special group within the Egyptian cabinet focused on advancing cooperation in renewable energy, information and communication technology (ICT), health, agriculture, and infrastructure. The discussions emphasized the need for enhancing trade between the two countries, with the goal of reaching $12 billion in five years.
In addition to economic cooperation, the strategic partnership encompasses defense and security, renewable energy, culture, and people-to-people ties. Both leaders emphasized the potential for collaboration in various sectors, including information and communication technology, pharmaceutical industries, vaccines, higher education, renewable energy (including green hydrogen), and tourism. They also explored the possibility of direct flights between Cairo and New Delhi, which would facilitate easier travel and strengthen people-to-people exchanges.
Modi extended an invitation to President Sisi to attend the G20 Summit in New Delhi, recognizing the importance of Egypt’s involvement in addressing global challenges. Egypt expressed confidence in India’s presidency of the G20 and its commitment to cooperating in areas such as energy crises, climate change, food shortages, and access to financing for developing countries. This partnership presents an opportunity for both countries to collaborate on important global issues and contribute to finding sustainable solutions.
Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra highlighted the potential for cooperation in renewable energy, particularly in the field of green hydrogen. Investment and technology partnerships are being explored, and experts from both countries are actively engaged in this emerging field. Discussions also took place regarding possible Indian investments in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, demonstrating the interest in expanding economic cooperation beyond traditional sectors.
Modi’s visit was not limited to official engagements; he also engaged with various stakeholders and communities. He met with Egypt’s Grand Mufti to discuss social and religious harmony, countering extremism, and radicalization. Additionally, he announced the establishment of a center of excellence in IT at Dar-al-Iftaa, an advisory body on Islamic affairs, further promoting collaboration between India and Egypt.
The prime minister’s visit included visits to significant cultural sites, including the Al-Hakim Mosque and the pyramids. These visits highlighted the rich cultural history shared by India and Egypt and provided an opportunity to explore ways to deepen these historical and cultural linkages.The elevation of the India-Egypt relationship to a strategic partnership marks a significant milestone. The increased cooperation in various sectors, coupled with the shared commitment to addressing global challenges, will contribute to the growth and prosperity of both nations. As India and Egypt forge ahead with this strategic partnership, their collaboration will not only benefit their respective countries but also contribute to regional stability and global development.
-by Kashvi Gala