Indian PM Narendra Modi makes landmark visit to Egypt after 26-Year gap

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a landmark bilateral visit to Egypt, marking the first such visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 26 years. The visit aims to strengthen the strategic partnership between India and Egypt and explore avenues for enhanced cooperation.

Upon his arrival in Cairo, Prime Minister Modi received a special honor as he was personally welcomed by the Prime Minister of Egypt. A guard of honor was presented to him, further emphasizing the ceremonial significance of the visit.

During his stay in Cairo, Prime Minister Modi will be accommodated in a hotel where Ahmed Shawqi's poem titled "Gandhi" will be showcased. The poem highlights Mahatma Gandhi's pivotal role in India's independence struggle.

As part of his itinerary, Prime Minister Modi will visit the Heliopolis War Memorial, a site established by the Commonwealth, which commemorates the bravery and sacrifice of 3,799 Indian soldiers who fought in Egypt during World War I. Additionally, he will tour the restored Al-Hakim mosque, a historical mosque dating back to the 11th century, with support from the Dawoodi Bohra community. 

Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to hold strategic talks with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, focusing on bolstering the bilateral relationship and exploring new avenues for cooperation. The discussions aim to provide an impetus to the strategic partnership between the two nations. Furthermore, Prime Minister Modi will engage with the Indian community residing in Egypt, fostering stronger people-to-people ties. Around 300-350 individuals have been invited to meet the Prime Minister during his visit, underscoring the significance of the Indian diaspora in Egypt.

During his visit, Prime Minister Modi will also meet with the Grand Mufti of Egypt, Dr. Shawki Ibrahim Abdel-Karim Allam, and interact with Egyptian thought leaders.

The significance of this visit is highlighted by India's Ambassador to Egypt, Ajit Gupte, who emphasized that they are looking forward to having PM Modi for the 2 day 'State Visit'. It is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Egypt since 1997.