Maiden India-Egypt strategic dialogue: Jaishankar hails Egypt’s leadership in Gaza peace process

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday praised Egypt’s leadership in the ongoing Gaza peace process as the two countries held their first-ever Strategic Dialogue in New Delhi on Thursday night.

Hailing President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi’s role in hosting the recent Sharm-el-Sheikh Summit, Jaishankar said: “Let me take the opportunity to appreciate the contribution of Egypt and the leadership of President Sisi in realizing the Gaza peace plan.” He added, “We sincerely hope that the summit and its understandings will pave the way for a better future. India will continue to strongly support all efforts towards a durable and just peace in the region.”

Jaishankar said, “India has been consistent in its support for a two-state solution... We are committed to enhancing capacity building, human resource development, and strengthening Palestinian institutions.”

The minister described the launch of the Strategic Dialogue as “a milestone in our ties”, highlighting the intensified cooperation since the elevation of ties to a Strategic Partnership in 2023.

Jaishankar said strong collaboration across politics, defence, trade, and multilateral forums, while identifying new areas for cooperation including “digital public infrastructure, fintech, pharma, space, startups, and green technologies.”

He also praised Egypt for assisting in the evacuation of Indian nationals during regional unrest in June 2025 and expressed gratitude for Egypt’s solidarity after the Pahalgam terror attack.

“We meet at a time when the international situation is complex and volatile,” Jaishankar said, calling for deeper strategic coordination amid shared global challenges.