Introduction
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Egypt marks a significant milestone in the diplomatic relations between India and Egypt. The visit comes after Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s visit to India earlier this year, which emphasized the importance of strengthening defense ties, promoting counterterrorism cooperation, and enhancing strategic partnerships between the two nations. PM Modi’s arrival in Egypt has been greeted with enthusiasm, and his leadership has been commended by Egypt’s Grand Mufti Shawki Ibrahim Allam for his commitment to inclusivity and pluralism.
Strengthening Cultural and People-to-People Relations
During the visit, PM Modi engaged in discussions with Egypt’s Grand Mufti, focusing on enhancing cultural and people-to-people relations between India and Egypt. The discussions aimed at fostering social and religious harmony while countering extremism and radicalism. PM Modi shared India’s plans to establish a Center of Excellence for IT in Dar al-Ifta, an institution falling under Egypt’s Ministry of Social Justice. This initiative aims to promote knowledge exchange and technological collaboration between the two nations. The Grand Mufti expressed his support for President Sisi’s efforts to strengthen relations with India, emphasizing the potential for increased cooperation.
Meeting with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly
Prior to his meeting with President Sisi, PM Modi held talks with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly. The Indian Prime Minister received a warm ceremonial reception upon his arrival at the airport, reflecting the significance of his visit. The meeting between PM Modi and Prime Minister Madbouly focused on a wide range of topics, including trade and investment, renewable energy, green hydrogen, IT, digital payment platforms, pharmaceuticals, and people-to-people relations. The discussions aimed to identify areas of mutual interest and explore opportunities for collaboration and economic growth.
Visit to the Shia Al-Hakim Mosque in Old Cairo
As part of his itinerary, PM Modi also visited the Shia Al-Hakim Mosque in Old Cairo, a significant religious and cultural landmark. The mosque was restored by the Bohra community and reopened earlier this year with the support of the Egyptian government. PM Modi’s visit to the mosque reflects the shared cultural heritage and the importance of interfaith dialogue in promoting harmony and understanding. It also highlights the contributions of the Indian diaspora in preserving and reviving cultural sites abroad.
FAQ’s
Q: What is the purpose of PM Modi’s visit to Egypt?
A: PM Modi’s visit aims to strengthen defense ties, promote counterterrorism cooperation, enhance strategic partnerships, and foster cultural and people-to-people relations between India and Egypt.
Q: Who praised PM Modi’s leadership during his visit to Egypt?
A: Egypt’s Grand Mufti Shawki Ibrahim Allam praised PM Modi’s leadership for promoting inclusivity and pluralism.
Q: What topics were discussed during PM Modi’s meeting with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly?
A: The meeting covered various subjects, including trade and investment, renewable energy, green hydrogen, IT, digital payment platforms, pharmaceuticals, and people-to-people relations.
Q: What is the significance of PM Modi’s visit to the Shia Al-Hakim Mosque in Old Cairo?
A: PM Modi’s visit to the mosque symbolizes the importance of interfaith dialogue, cultural preservation, and the contributions of the Indian diaspora in promoting harmony and understanding.
