Egypt: Indian Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi and Egypt’s President Mr. Abdel Fattah el-Sisi held a meeting in Cairo, during which they expressed their commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership between their countries. The leaders signed a joint declaration to elevate relations to a strategic partnership, building on the announcement made earlier in January 2023 when President Mr. el-Sisi visited New Delhi.

The discussions between Mr. Modi and el-Sisi focused on various areas of cooperation, including trade and investment, renewable energy, information technology, and pharmaceuticals. Both leaders recognized the importance of enhancing economic ties, particularly as Egypt faces an economic downturn, while India aims to increase its investment in the Arab world’s most populous nation.

The bilateral talks also covered important global issues, such as food and energy insecurity, climate change, and the need for the Global South to have a united voice. The leaders discussed further cooperation within the G-20 framework and highlighted the significance of defense and security ties between India and Egypt.

A tribute to India’s brave soldiers, whose courage will never be forgotten.

At the Heliopolis War Memorial, I paid homage to our brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the First World War in Egypt. pic.twitter.com/m1DkXbNK9g

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 25, 2023

During Modi’s visit, President Mr. el-Sisi welcomed him at the presidential palace and honoured him with Egypt’s highest award, the Order of the Nile. The leaders expressed their mutual commitment to deepening relations, which would involve increasing high-level visits, establishing direct flights between the capitals, and facilitating Indian investments in Egypt. They also discussed the potential for a dedicated land area for Indian industries in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, which could further boost bilateral trade and investment.

India is already Egypt’s seventh-largest trading partner, with trade reaching $7 billion in the previous year. The leaders acknowledged the existing trade relationship and aimed to expand it further. Notably, Indian firm ACME is set to construct a $12 billion green hydrogen plant in Egypt, highlighting the potential for significant investment and collaboration in the renewable energy sector.

The meeting between Mr. Modi and el-Sisi signals the growing importance of the India-Egypt partnership and sets the stage for strengthened cooperation in various fields, benefiting both nations.

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