Defence Minister calls on Egyptian President, agrees to strengthen military cooperation

New Delhi, Sep (IANS) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday called on Egypt's President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo.

He was received very warmly by El-Sisi who pointed out that relations between India and Egypt are well-established through history, and expressed appreciation that military-to-military cooperation between both countries has reached a new level and that signing of MoU on defence cooperation is a major achievement, a Defence Ministry statement said.

Both leaders agreed to further develop military cooperation and focus on joint training, defence co-production, and maintenance of equipment. They also emphasised the need for co-production and to discuss specific proposals in that regard.

While Rajnath Singh expressed appreciation for the firm stand taken by Egypt against terrorism, the President underlined the need for both countries to exchange expertise and best practices in countering the threat.

The Minister acknowledged that Egypt is among the most important trading partners of India in Africa and that bilateral trade has expanded significantly. He also noted with satisfaction their close cooperation in multilateral forums.