New Delhi, Oct 16 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar emphasized that India and Egypt are united in their commitment to the advancement of the Global South.

"India and Egypt are committed to enhancing the progress of the Global South and to reinforcing the independence and freedom of choice of nations in global affairs. This unity will undoubtedly steer our dialogues today," EAM Jaishankar remarked during the opening session of the First India-Egypt Strategic Dialogue, while also extending a warm welcome to Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, who is on a two-day visit to India.

This visit marks Abdelatty's inaugural trip to India in his capacity as Foreign Minister.

EAM Jaishankar pointed out that the inaugural India-Egypt Strategic Dialogue signifies a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship, which has witnessed heightened cooperation across various sectors since the partnership was upgraded to a Strategic Partnership level in 2023.

"Our political interactions and coordination have been robust and continuous, particularly in multilateral contexts. Our defense and security collaborations have expanded, and the prospects for trade and investment remain optimistic. We will explore avenues to advance these initiatives further. Additionally, we can investigate opportunities in digital public infrastructure, fintech, pharmaceuticals, space, startups, and green technologies. As two ancient civilizations, cultural and people-to-people exchanges hold significant importance in our relations," EAM Jaishankar stated.

He further noted that, in line with the longstanding camaraderie between the two nations, it was only natural for Egypt to assist India during the evacuation of Indian citizens from the region in June 2025.

"I would like to express our sincere gratitude for the solidarity your Government and you personally demonstrated following the Pahalgam terrorist attack. Prime Minister Modi and President Sisi communicated during that period. We appreciated the warm reception you extended to the multi-party parliamentary delegation that visited Egypt subsequently," he stated.

EAM Jaishankar highlighted that the meeting is taking place amidst a backdrop of a "complex and volatile international landscape."

"I would like to acknowledge Egypt's contribution and President Sisi's leadership in advancing the Gaza peace initiative. Prime Minister Modi valued President Sisi’s invitation to the Sharm-el-Sheikh Summit for Peace, where we were represented by Minister K.V. Singh. We genuinely hope that the Summit and its agreements will pave the way for a brighter future. India will persistently support all endeavors aimed at achieving a durable and just peace in the region," he remarked.

"In this regard, I would also like to affirm that India has consistently supported a two-state solution. We have extensive development cooperation with Palestine and are dedicated to enhancing capacity building, human resource development, and strengthening Palestinian institutions," he concluded.

--IANAS

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