The government has announced that Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi will grace the republic day celebrations this year. He shall be the first leader from Egypt to be a guest on India’s republic day.
Along with being the Chief Guest at the event, his visit to India shall open a chapter of relationships between the two countries. AL Sisi’s visit has been termed as ‘historic’. Also, it will help deepen the bilateral relations between the two countries. Although, this is not Al Sisi’s first trip to India. He has previously come twice to India. But, this time the ties can get a further boost.
A new phase in India-Egypt Relations
Several agreements shall take place between India and Egypt on the occasion of Al Sisi’s visit. These agreements shall act as a base for deep cooperation between the two countries. At the same time, there shall be strong cooperation in a variety of areas.
They include security, defence, energy, and trade areas. While the countries shall try to enhance their ties in Agriculture and Information, communication, and Technology sectors. Apart from that, terrorism and pharmaceuticals can be the other areas for discussion.
180 Military Personnel from Egypt
It is being reported that more than 180 military personnel of Egypt shall come to India. They are expected to be a part of the Republic Day celebrations in India when the Egyptian President shall be the Chief Guest.
It shall highlight the increasing defence partnerships between the two countries. The defence partnerships include joint military exercises and industrial cooperation in the military. Further, India has invited Egypt to be a Special Guest at the G20 Summit in India.
Mutual Benefits for India and Egypt
The meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President AL Sisi shall emphasise security and Counter Terrorism Partnership. Also, Egypt is seeking support in capacity building, cyber security, and border management from India. It wants to use it to deal with extremism and terrorism.
Alongside this, there can be discussions over information sharing. Experts suggest that space sector cooperation can also be a topic as India is planning to help Cairo in space vehicle launches.
The latter is the headquarters for the Arab League. At the same time, it has not supported Pakistan’s claims on Kashmir in OIC in recent years. So, it can play a role of moderation and Sisi has taken a strong position against terrorists and radical forces too. Also, it plays a significant role in dealing with the radical Muslim Brotherhood. Being the most populous country in the Arab world, its support is important to deal with terrorism and deradicalization.
A subtle nod to the Past
Experts suggest that this visit will relive the memories of extraordinary relationships the two shared in the 1950s and 1960s. At that time, Egyptian President Abdel Gamal Nasser and Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru shared a similarly strong bond.
