- Friday, February 28, 2025
The Indian PM’s two-day state visit to the African nation following his trip to the US, was initiated at the invitation of Egyptian president Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and it marks the first bilateral visit by an Indian prime minister since 1997.
By: India Weekly Staff
DURING his inaugural visit to Egypt, Indian prime minister Narendra Modi plans to pay homage to the courageous Indian soldiers who fought and sacrificed their lives in Egypt and Palestine during World War I (1914-18). The two-day state visit, initiated at the invitation of Egyptian president Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, marks the first bilateral visit by an Indian prime minister since 1997.
One of the significant sites that Modi intends to visit is the Heliopolis Commonwealth War Grave Cemetery, which stands as a somber memorial to approximately 4,000 soldiers from the Indian Army who served and perished in Egypt and Palestine during World War I. The local residents, acknowledging the Indian leader’s forthcoming visit, express their warm welcome and respect for the Indian soldiers. They consider it an honour to have Modi in Egypt, emphasising the Egyptians’ generosity towards visitors and tourists.
PM @narendramodi is on his way to Egypt for a State visit.
Here is a quick look into India’s multifaceted ties with Egypt. pic.twitter.com/0FQjMtJn9Q
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) June 24, 2023
The entrance of the cemetery showcases pavilions that house the Heliopolis Port Tewfik Memorial, dedicated to the valiant Indian soldiers. Unfortunately, the original memorial at Port Tewfik was destroyed during the Israeli-Egyptian conflict in the 1970s. Nonetheless, the presence of this memorial serves as a testament to the sacrifices made by the Indian soldiers.
During his departure for the two-nation trip from India on June 20 that also included a state visit to the US, PM Modi expressed his enthusiasm for this significant visit, highlighting the close and friendly relations between the two countries. He noted the reciprocal visits, with president Sisi attending India’s Republic Day celebrations earlier in the year.
These visits exemplify the rapidly evolving partnership between India and Egypt, which was elevated to a ‘Strategic Partnership’ during pSisi’s visit to India. PM Modi looks forward to productive discussions with pSisi and other senior members of the Egyptian government to further strengthen their civilizational and multi-faceted partnership. He also eagerly anticipates engaging with the vibrant Indian diaspora residing in Egypt.
Modi’s visit to Egypt holds immense significance as it not only honors the sacrifices of Indian soldiers but also symbolizes the deepening ties between India and Egypt, fostering a stronger partnership across various domains.
(With agency inputs)
