India-Egypt Strategic Partnership Strengthens with Deeper Trade, Defense, and Investment Ties

India values Egypt's experience and strategic insights, which contribute to a more stable regional security architecture. Culturally, India cherishes the ancient civilizational links and the shared history of non-alignment, using cultural exchanges to foster stronger people-to-people bonds.

PM Modi arrived  in Cairo  on his first State visit to Egypt. PM was accorded a ceremonial welcome and a Guard of Honour upon arrival. In a special gesture, PM Mostafa Madbouly of Egypt received PM Modi at the airport.

By H.E. Kamel Galal, Ambassador, 

Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt  in New Delhi

The strategic partnership between Egypt and India is increasingly recognized by both nations as a cornerstone of their respective foreign policies.

Rooted in deep historical and civilizational ties, this relationship has expanded to encompass diverse areas of political, economic, defense, and cultural cooperation, serving the mutual interests of both countries in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

From an Egyptian viewpoint, the relationship with India is of paramount strategic importance. Recent years, notably marked by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi's visit to India as the Chief Guest for Republic Day celebrations in January 2023, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's reciprocal visit to Cairo in June 2023, have elevated bilateral ties to a "Strategic Partnership." This signifies a deep convergence in political visions and development priorities, underscoring Cairo's commitment to robust collaboration in areas of mutual interest.

Economically, both countries are keen to boost bilateral trade to $12 billion within the next five years, actively seeking to diversify trade and enhance value-added goods. Growing Indian investments, around $4 billion in crucial sectors like renewable energy (especially green hydrogen), ICT, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and manufacturing, are highly valued. These investments not only fuel Egypt's economic growth but also create jobs and support comprehensive development. Egypt is particularly receptive to the idea of a dedicated zone for Indian industries in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, leveraging its strategic location as a gateway to African and European markets.

In defense, Egypt sees India as a key collaborator for regional security. The past few years have seen significant momentum in defense relations, including high-level military exchanges and joint military exercises like "Bright Star-2023," where India made its debut participation. Egypt is also keen to deepen cooperation in defense manufacturing and share expertise in counter-terrorism and combating organized crime, as highlighted by the Fourth Meeting of the Egyptian-Indian Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism in Cairo on April 30, 2025. Culturally, Egypt values the shared history and strong people-to-people connections, actively promoting exchanges and academic partnerships.

From an Indian standpoint, Egypt holds immense strategic value as a critical gateway to North Africa, the Middle East, and the broader African continent. India recognizes Egypt's pivotal role in regional stability and its growing economic potential. The elevation to a "Strategic Partnership" reflects India's intent to forge deeper and more comprehensive ties with a key player in the Arab and African worlds.

Economically, India is seeking to benefit from Egypt as a significant market and an investment destination with high potential. Indian companies are actively exploring opportunities in Egypt's burgeoning infrastructure, energy, and digital sectors, aligning with Cairo's vision for development. The establishment of specialized industrial zones for Indian businesses would further incentivize investment and facilitate greater trade flows. India is keen to leverage Egypt's strategic location along the Suez Canal for enhanced connectivity to European and African markets, bolstering its own trade and logistics networks.

In defense, India sees Egypt as a valuable partner for security cooperation in a crucial geopolitical region. Collaborative military exercises and intelligence sharing are vital for addressing common threats, including maritime security in the Indian Ocean and Red Sea, and counter-terrorism efforts. India values Egypt's experience and strategic insights, which contribute to a more stable regional security architecture. Culturally, India cherishes the ancient civilizational links and the shared history of non-alignment, using cultural exchanges to foster stronger people-to-people bonds.

For both Egypt and India, the partnership extends beyond bilateral interests. Both nations are committed to multilateralism and a rules-based international order, often coordinating positions in forums like the UN, G20, and BRICS. They share a vision for a multipolar world where developing nations have a stronger voice. The ongoing cooperation in various sectors, from clean energy to digital transformation, positions both countries to address shared developmental challenges and contribute to global stability and prosperity.