At a reception marking the 73rd anniversary of the Egyptian Revolution of July 23, 1952, held at ITC Maurya in New Delhi, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Culture and Minister of Tourism, Government of India, reflected the depth and maturity of India-Egypt relations. As the Chief Guest for the evening, his remarks were more than a congratulatory message; it was a powerful reaffirmation of a civilizational friendship that continues to evolve across strategic, economic, and cultural dimensions.
Describing the revolution as “a defining moment that laid the foundation of modern-day Egypt,” Shri Shekhawat applauded Egypt’s journey of political, economic, and social transformation. He noted that Egypt could “take immense pride in this remarkable journey,” which in many ways runs parallel to India’s own post-independence development.
Drawing from the rich cultural roots that bind the two countries, the Minister said that “India and Egypt—two ancient civilisations—have walked parallel paths in their march towards modernity.” He highlighted the historical camaraderie between the two nations as fellow members of the Global South, particularly in their shared stance against terrorism. Referring to Egypt’s strong support following the Pulwama terror attack, he said, “We deeply value Egypt’s strong support to India in the aftermath of the heinous terror attack in Pulwama, Jammu & Kashmir.”
The warmth between the two nations was further evident in his appreciation of Egypt’s recent hosting of an Indian parliamentary delegation. Such exchanges, he said, “deepen our trust and understanding.”
He also paid tribute to Egypt’s influence on Indian imagination. “Every Indian schoolchild grows up reading about the splendour of ancient Egypt—its pyramids, pharaohs, and enduring legacy,” he noted, while underscoring the emotional connection and admiration Indians feel for Egypt.
A major portion of Shri Shekhawat’s address focused on the rapidly growing bilateral relationship, which was elevated to a Strategic Partnership during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Egypt in June 2023. Reflecting on the visit and the subsequent return engagement, he stated, “Earlier that year, we were privileged to welcome President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi as the Chief Guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations… a moment made even more special by the sight of the Egyptian military contingent marching proudly along Kartavya Path during the parade.”
He highlighted that the partnership today is “multifaceted,” encompassing political dialogue, defence cooperation, economic collaboration, and cultural exchange. Bilateral trade, currently standing at USD 5 billion, has the potential to rise to USD 12 billion within the next five years, he emphasised. “This goal is well within reach,” he said, especially given Egypt’s strategic location and economic openness. Indian companies are already making significant inroads into Egyptian sectors such as polymers, electronics, green energy, and IT.
On the defence front, he noted, “Our defence cooperation is growing steadily, with regular joint air force exercises since 2021 and frequent port visits by Indian naval ships.” He called for expanding collaboration to include joint maritime security and defence production.
Beyond policy and geopolitics, Shri Shekhawat turned to the emotional and cultural thread that knits the two countries together. “The people-to-people relationship between India and Egypt is built on mutual appreciation, respect, and curiosity,” he said, citing initiatives like the Maulana Azad Centre for Indian Culture, India by the Nile festival, and educational exchanges through ITEC.
He pointed to cultural crossovers that continue to thrive: the popularity of Indian films and yoga in Egypt, and the resonance of Egyptian music and cinema in India. A particularly moving example was the participation of over 23,000 Egyptian schoolchildren in a painting competition on Indian culture—“an overwhelming response that truly reflects the depth of our connection.”
The Minister also shared a personal aside about Ambassador Kamel’s familiarity with India. “With your deep familiarity with India—having spent your formative years here and even played cricket as a wicketkeeper—I am confident that we are in excellent hands,” he said, drawing laughter and appreciation from the audience.
Concluding on a hopeful note, Shri Shekhawat reaffirmed India’s commitment to deepening bilateral ties: “Together, let us harness the strength of our shared values and strategic vision to build a brighter, more peaceful, and prosperous future for our peoples.”
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