New delhi: India and Egypt conducted their inaugural India-Egypt Strategic Dialogue in New Delhi, marking a significant step towards strengthening their bilateral ties. A statement from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the significance of the meeting, with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty in attendance. Jaishankar emphasized that this meeting represents a milestone in the relationship between the two countries, noting the intensified cooperation in various domains since the relationship was elevated to a Strategic Partnership in 2023.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Jaishankar remarked on the strategic dialogue’s role in assessing and setting future directions to fulfill the visions of both nations’ leaders. He acknowledged the robust political contacts and coordination that have been sustained, including collaboration on the multilateral front. The dialogue also highlighted the growth in defense and security exchanges, as well as the promising landscape of trade and investment. Discussions are set to explore potential advancements in digital public infrastructure, fintech, pharma, space, startups, and green technologies.
Jaishankar expressed appreciation for Egypt and President Abdelfattah Al-Sisi’s leadership in realizing the Gaza peace plan at the Sharm-el-Sheikh Summit for Peace. He voiced hope that the summit’s outcomes would contribute to a better future, reiterating India’s commitment to supporting efforts for a lasting and just peace in the region. Furthermore, Jaishankar affirmed India’s support for a two-state solution and its ongoing development cooperation with Palestine, emphasizing India’s dedication to capacity building, human resource development, and the strengthening of Palestinian institutions.
In concluding remarks, Jaishankar highlighted the shared commitment of India and Egypt to advancing the interests of the Global South, stressing the importance of strengthening the independence and freedom of choice of nations in global affairs.