Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Cairo for the first time on Saturday to strengthen economic and defense cooperation ties with Egypt. Modi’s official visit follows just five months after Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi visited India, as both nations aim to move beyond their historic ties and diplomatic exchanges towards a strategic partnership. During his visit, Modi is scheduled to meet with President el-Sisi to discuss the strengthening of bilateral cooperation in various sectors, including defense, trade, and investment. According to a senior Indian official, the talks will have a very sharp focus on these areas.
The strategic partnership between the two Global South powerhouses is expected to promote regional stability, security, and economic growth. The economic partnership between India and Egypt is crucial given their respective populations, markets, and strategic locations. Areas of cooperation may include pharmaceuticals, textiles, and engineering. Egypt relies heavily on India for heavy equipment, machinery, and vehicles, while India imports crude oil and fertilizers from Egypt.
Additionally, the two countries may explore cooperation in the defense sector, given the ongoing security challenges in Egypt and India’s geostrategic location. Egypt is an important partner for India in North Africa and the Mediterranean and shares concerns about terrorism, regional instability, and maritime security threats. India may offer technical assistance, training, and military equipment to its Egyptian counterparts to build capacity and strengthen bilateral security arrangements.
The visit comes amidst the backdrop of recent rapprochements between the two countries, which signals an emerging partnership between two of the largest democracies in the world. The Indian Prime Minister’s visit to Cairo signifies the commitment of both countries to foster closer ties and strengthen economic and defense cooperation.
