The Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in India celebrated the 74th Anniversary of Egypt’s National Day with a grand reception at ITC Maurya, New Delhi, bringing together senior government officials, ambassadors, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, and distinguished guests. The event was graced by Shri Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, as the Chief Guest.
Welcoming the distinguished gathering, H.E. Ambassador Kamel Zayed Galal reflected on Egypt’s remarkable civilisational legacy while reaffirming his country’s commitment to development, peace, and international cooperation.
“Today, we honour not only a defining moment in our modern history but also the enduring legacy of one of humanity’s oldest continuous civilisations. Egypt’s greatness is measured by what it has preserved and contributed across millennia, in science, philosophy, art, and the timeless pursuit of justice and human dignity,” the Ambassador said.
Quoting a well-known reflection on Egypt’s unique place in history, Ambassador Galal remarked: “Where many civilisations became chapters in history, Egypt became a living continent.”
He noted that Egypt continues to draw strength from its resilience and wisdom as it advances its national development agenda while expanding partnerships across the world, including with its close friend, India.
An Enduring India–Egypt Partnership
Highlighting the historic relationship between the two countries, Ambassador Galal said that the friendship between Egypt and India is rooted in solidarity, mutual respect, and the shared experiences of two ancient civilisations.
He recalled that the relationship was shaped by visionary leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi and President Gamal Abdel Nasser, whose shared ideals laid the foundation for one of the developing world’s most enduring partnerships.
Today, he said, bilateral relations have evolved into a dynamic Strategic Partnership under the leadership of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“Our cooperation continues to expand across defence, trade, investment, renewable energy, technology, education, culture, tourism, and vibrant people-to-people exchanges. It is rooted in our shared vision of a global order based on peace, multilateralism, tolerance, and coexistence.”
The Ambassador also cited the words of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore to underline the philosophical foundations of cooperation between the two nations. “The highest education is that which does not merely give us information but makes our life in harmony with all existence.”
Egypt’s Economic Transformation
Ambassador Galal highlighted Egypt’s ongoing economic transformation, emphasising major infrastructure projects, economic reforms, renewable energy investments, and digital transformation initiatives.
Positioned strategically at the crossroads of Asia, Africa and Europe, and home to the globally significant Suez Canal, Egypt, he said, offers immense opportunities for deeper engagement with India.
At the same time, he praised India’s achievements in innovation and digital governance.
“India’s remarkable achievements in innovation, digital public infrastructure and technological advancement open promising avenues for collaboration that can advance sustainable development across the Global South.”
He further noted that, as members of BRICS, Egypt and India are working together to ensure that the aspirations of developing countries receive greater recognition in an evolving international order.
Shared Civilisational Values
Ambassador Galal observed that beyond strategic and economic cooperation, the true strength of India–Egypt relations lies in the natural affinity between their peoples.
He said both societies cherish family values, culture, spirituality, education, and the pursuit of knowledge, making people-to-people engagement a cornerstone of bilateral ties.
“In an interconnected world, our collective success depends on cooperation, dialogue and mutual understanding.”
Regional Peace and Stability
Addressing regional developments, Ambassador Galal reiterated Egypt’s longstanding support for peace and stability in the Middle East.
He described the Palestinian issue as the core crisis in the region and reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to achieving a just and comprehensive peace through the internationally recognised two-state solution, in accordance with international legitimacy.
The Ambassador also expressed concern over the deteriorating regional security situation and its implications for maritime navigation, global trade, energy security, food security, and international supply chains.
He stressed that Egypt continues to work closely with regional partners to contain tensions and prevent further escalation while condemning attacks targeting several Arab countries.
A Bridge Between Civilisations
Concluding his address, Ambassador Galal reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to serving as a bridge between civilizations and as a responsible global partner.
“Egypt will continue to serve as a bridge between civilisations, a voice of wisdom, a partner for dialogue, and a force for stability and shared prosperity.”
He added that Egypt would continue strengthening connections between Africa and Asia, the Mediterranean and the Indo-Pacific, while building upon its rich heritage to embrace innovation.
“Our history gives us confidence. Our geography gives us responsibility. Our citizens give us purpose. And the future gives us our mission.”
In an engaging conclusion that drew warm appreciation from the audience, Ambassador Galal referenced the popular Indian film Pushpa, noting that its message of resilience and determination resonated strongly with Egypt’s own spirit.
“Inspired by the powerful line from the Indian film Pushpa, Egypt shares this spirit of steadfast resolve. We will continue to strengthen and elevate our partnership with India with confidence and determination, building on the strong foundation of friendship, mutual respect and shared aspirations that unite our nations.”
The reception concluded with a celebration of Egypt’s rich cultural heritage and its enduring friendship with India, reflecting the growing momentum in bilateral cooperation across political, economic, strategic, cultural, and people-to-people domains.
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