On July 22, 2024, the Embassy of Egypt in India hosted a grand reception at the Imperial Hotel, New Delhi, to celebrate Egypt’s National Day and commemorate 77 years of diplomatic relations between Egypt and India.
The event was hosted by H.E. Mr. Wael Hamed and Mrs. Soha Hamed, who used the occasion to mark the end of his tenure.
At the registration desk, guests received coupons for a lucky draw, offering a chance to win free tickets from Egypt Air, adding an element of excitement to the evening’s festivities.
The evening was marked by a sense of historical reflection and future aspirations. Ambassador Wael Hamed, in his speech, expressed his gratitude for the support and cooperation received during his term. He acknowledged the valuable contributions of the outgoing staff and warmly welcomed the new members joining the embassy. Amb Hamed also highlighted the deep and enduring relationship between Egypt and India, emphasising how it has evolved and strengthened over the years.
The chief guest for the evening, Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, in his remarks highlighted the significance of the occasion. He noted, “It is an immense pleasure for me to join you today in celebrating Egypt’s National Day. This occasion is significant not only for Egypt but also holds valuable meaning for India. On behalf of the Indian government and our people, I extend my heartfelt wishes to the government and people of Egypt.”
Dr. Jaishankar acknowledged the deepening of India-Egypt relations, emphasising the recent exchange of visits between President Sisi and Prime Minister Modi. “We had the honour of hosting President Sisi as our chief guest, and we are deeply grateful for this gesture. In return, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Egypt, further solidifying the bonds between our countries. This exchange of visits has infused new energy and enthusiasm into our bilateral relations,” he said.
The Minister also highlighted the economic and defence cooperation between the two nations. He pointed out that over 50 Indian companies have invested in various sectors of the Egyptian economy, including pharmaceuticals, electronics, and green energy. He commended the remarkable growth in defence cooperation, noting the regular bilateral exercises conducted by both countries’ air forces and Special Forces.
Cultural exchanges have played a pivotal role in strengthening the relationship between Egypt and India. Jaishankar remarked on the growing interest in Indian culture in Egypt, including the popularity of the Hindi language. He praised the ongoing cultural interactions between the universities of both nations and the continued collaboration on various international platforms.
“Our shared history and values are timeless,” Jaishankar highlighted. “The friendship between President Sisi and Prime Minister Modi underscores our shared vision for a future where freedom and cooperation flourish. We are proud of the strides we have made and are committed to advancing our relationship further.”
As the reception drew to a close, the mood was one of optimism and renewed commitment to the partnership between Egypt and India. Both nations look forward to a future of continued cooperation, mutual respect, and shared prosperity.
In his final remarks, Ambassador Wael Hamed expressed his deep appreciation for the support received during his tenure and conveyed his best wishes to the people and government of Egypt. The evening was a fitting tribute to the enduring partnership between the two nations and a celebration of the vibrant cultural and diplomatic ties that bind them together.
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