After leaving the United States, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi travelled to Egypt for a two-day visit. This visit is notable because it is the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Egypt in 26 years.
The reason why PM Modi’s trip to Egypt was considered a “State visit” by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi is because he issued the invitation following India’s Republic Day celebrations earlier this year, where PM Modi was acknowledged as the “Chief Guest.”
This trip is significant since it is the first time in 26 years since 1997 that an Indian prime minister has travelled bilaterally to Egypt.
PM Modi held private discussions on Sunday with President El-Sisi and Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly when he was there.
He included a visit to Cairo’s famous and historic Al-Hakim Mosque, which bears the name of the 16th Fatimid caliph, Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah (985-1021), in his schedule.
Additionally, PM Modi visited the Heliopolis War Grave cemetery to pay respects to the valiant Indian soldiers who fought for Egypt during the First World War.
The meeting between Prime Minister Modi and Egypt’s renowned Grand Mufti, Dr. Shawki Ibrahim Abdel-Karim Allam, was a significant highlight of his trip to Egypt.
Their conversations centered on ways to improve India and Egypt’s cultural and interpersonal ties. PM Modi committed to forging stronger ties between the two countries.
Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly gave PM Modi a hearty embrace as he arrived at Cairo International Airport, indicating the particular honours bestowed upon him.
When PM Modi arrived at the hotel, the Indian community in Cairo gave him a rousing welcome as well, waving Indian flags and applauding with “Modi Modi” chants.
