Egypt, India Enjoyed History of Close Contact from Ancient Times

India and Egypt, two of the world’s oldest civilizations, have enjoyed a history of close contact from ancient times. In fact, this close understanding is reflected in our bilateral engagements. We have been able to give much-needed thrust to our relations in the last couple of years. In the recent past, a number of Ministerial visits from both sides. Our bilateral trade figures are robust and are witnessing an upward trajectory. Indian companies are increasingly looking at Egypt as a potential investment destination. Cooperation in the fields of Green Energy, Green Hydrogen, Information Technology, Higher Education, infrastructure has emerged as new fields for bilateral cooperation.

In view of our growing bilateral relations, Shri PM Narendra Modi and the President of Eygpt announced the upgradation of bilateral relations to the level of ‘strategic partnership’ during the very successful State Visit of President Sisi to India in January 2023. I hope that Egypt’s participation in G20 deliberations, as a Guest country, will add further dimensions to not only India-Egypt but also the South-South cooperation.

India is known for its diversity… diversity of religion, culture, and languages. But what makes us unique is our spirit of unity in diversity that binds us together. Back in India, all communities come together to celebrate every festival, be it Holi or Diwali or Christmas or IdulFitr…etc. India is home to more than 200 million Muslims, making India the third largest country in the world in terms of the Muslim population. The celebration of Ramadan in India is very much similar to the celebration of this holy month in Egypt. During Ramadan, Iftar is organized by Hindus, Sikhs, and Christians for their Muslim brothers in a manner that reflects the tolerance, solidarity and harmony among the people of India.

You may be surprised to know that the CheramanJuma Mosque in the state of Kerala, which was built in 629 CE during the lifetime of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him-PBUH), is the oldest mosque in the Indian subcontinent, and is still in use.

The holy month of Ramadan is a time for discipline and self-restraint. It is also an occasion to recall shared values of family, community, charity and compassion. Today, more than ever, the values of Ramadan are of great importance for all of us all over the world.