Cairo, Egypt – Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s momentous two-day visit to Egypt culminated in a historic meeting with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. The discussions transcended diplomatic formalities, paving the way for a profound strategic partnership with a strong emphasis on bolstering strategic and security cooperation between the two nations. The high-level talks yielded the signing of four significant Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements, including a groundbreaking strategic partnership that heralds a new era in the bilateral relations between India and Egypt.
In essence, Prime Minister Modi and President al-Sisi demonstrated a mutual respect that surpassed the realms of diplomatic and economic cooperation. Their shared vision necessitates the elevation of their relationship to the level of a strategic partnership. Egypt has long been a trusted friend of India, with the historic ties between our first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, and former Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser often making international headlines. While India achieved independence in 1947, Egypt transitioned into a republic in 1953. Despite mounting pressures to align with either the American or Soviet bloc, both leaders, revered in their respective countries, displayed the audacity to chart an independent foreign policy path through non-alignment. It is worth noting that it has taken 26 years for an Indian Prime Minister to visit Egypt since the last visit in 1997. While countries prioritize their own interests in diplomacy, fostering strong personal relationships only strengthens ties, as enhanced understanding paves the way for the resolution of minor issues. As a testament to the amicable relations between Modi and al-Sisi, the Prime Minister of India was bestowed with Egypt’s highest honor, the ‘Order of the Nile’. Egypt bestows such honors sparingly, but in recognition of India’s increasing global influence and relevance, the elected leader of India, representing its 1.4 billion citizens, was accorded this distinction.
Turkey, a perpetual concern for Egypt and a fellow member of the Non-Aligned Movement alongside India, has consistently posed challenges for Cairo. When a NATO member like Turkey encroaches upon Egyptian sea borders, tensions naturally escalate between the two nations. India has consistently supported Egypt in these confrontations, which does not sit well with Turkey. However, India’s resolute stance against Turkish aggression sends a resounding message that New Delhi vehemently opposes injustice and encroachments in international politics. It is intriguing to observe how Turkey, a country that openly supported Pakistan during the Indo-Pak conflicts of 1965 and 1971, and continues to espouse Pakistan’s narrative on the Kashmir issue, expects India to align with its interests as if it were a treaty ally.
Significantly, defense cooperation has emerged as a focal point in the current bilateral relationship. The talks held on Sunday between Prime Minister Modi and President al-Sisi marked the inauguration of a new chapter in the strategic ties between the two nations, particularly in the realm of defense. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh had previously reached an agreement with Defense Minister General Mohammad Zaki during his visit to Egypt in September 2022. Furthermore, President al-Sisi has expressed a desire for economic assistance from India, encouraging Indian companies to invest in Egypt. The longstanding amicability between the two countries renders investment opportunities favorable, as India and Egypt have never experienced strained relations. Anticipations run high that the future trajectory of this bilateral partnership will witness further enhancements and accomplishments.
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