Egypt, India to form anti-terrorism group

[Sam.]

Egypt, India to form anti-terrorism group
August 24, 2015, 9:10 pm

During her two-day trip to Cairo, Swaraj stressed India’s longstanding ties with Egypt and invited the President to attend a critical summit in Delhi in October [Xinhua]


Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sissi met with Indian Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj in Cairo Monday and reiterated his intent to visit Delhi soon.


During their two-hour meeting, El-Sissi and Swaraj agreed to establish a joint anti-terrorism and security task force to deal with such rising threats as the Islamic State.

Swaraj told El-Sissi that destroying the Islamic State requires a collective global effort.

India has already formed such initiatives with other countries in the region.

Swaraj said her trip to Cairo was part of the process of preparing for the third India-Africa Summit to be held in Delhi on October 26.

Egypt is one of India’s greatest economic partner in Africa with annual trade nearing $5 billion in 2014.

According to the Cairo-based Central Agency for Public Mobilisation and Statistics (CAPMAS), India is Egypt’s sixth-largest trading partner. Egyptian exports to India – including cotton and raw materials – reached $1.74 billion in 2014.

Some 50 Indian companies currently operate in Egypt at an investment of $3 billion dollars, and employ at least 35,000 in the local work force.

Swaraj also met with her Egyptian counterpart Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, who said he was “happy at the pace of development of bilateral ties on a number of fronts”.

The two foreign ministers also attended a ceremony for the signing of Memorandums of Understanding between the two countries in the fields of tourism and scientific exchange.

Swaraj said she was keen on boosting bilateral relations with Egypt, a historic ally and co-founder of the Non-Aligned Movement in the 1960s, particularly in the vein of data technology and pharmaceuticals.

During his meeting with Swaraj, Arab League Secretary-General Nabil El Araby called on India to remain steadfast in its committed support for the rights of the Palestinian people.

Anil Wadhwa, the Secretary (East) in the Indian Ministry of External Affairs accompanying Swaraj, told reporters that she had assured El Araby that India’s support of the Palestinians is unchanged.

“We reiterated our support to the Palestinian cause. We said that there is no change in India’s position. The President of India will be visiting Palestine, Israel and Jordan together and our basic support for the Palestinian cause will remain undiluted in the future,” Wadhwa told the media.

Swaraj is expected to fly to Germany, where she will be holding bilateral talks, on Tuesday.

El Sissi flies to Moscow on Tuesday to begin the first leg of his trip to Russia and China.

Egypt, India to form anti-terrorism group | The BRICS Post

 

[Frogman]

@Sam.

Any idea how accurate this is and if there any more details?

 

[Sam.]

@Sam.

Any idea how accurate this is and if there any more details?

My friend what source you need?

i will get you updates from ministry of external affairs of India.

India Committed to Comprehensive Fight Against Terror: Sushma Swaraj in Egypt
All India | Press Trust of India | Updated: August 25, 2015 23:42 IST

COMMENTS

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj with President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi of Egypt at a meeting in Cairo on August 25. (PTI)

CAIRO: India today called for a "comprehensive fight" against terror groups like the Lashkar-e-Taiba and Taliban threatening peace in neighboring countries, and the Islamic which is emerging as a threat to the Gulf region.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, delivering an address in Cairo, voiced India's concern over the growth of terrorism and radicalisation and said there is a need to develop a broader approach based on dialogue to shift from an atmosphere of "mistrust and violence" towards one which exudes confidence in peace and development.

Talks between India and Pakistan scheduled in New Delhi that would have presented India an opportunity for a bilateral dialogue on terrorism.


In an address to a select group of Egypt's strategic thinkers and policy makers, Ms Swaraj talked about the threat of IS in the Gulf region and that of Taliban and LeT in India's neighbourhood.

"We are today witnessing growing violence and intolerance. The growth of extremism as represented by Al Qaeda and now ISIS in your region and that of Taliban, Laskhar-e-Toiba and others in our neighbourhood, are manifestations of this trend.

"We have to fight radicalisation and extremism, the threat of terrorism and the emergence of non-state actors who challenge the civilised world in a collective and comprehensive manner," she said.

Ms Swaraj said that India stands committed to support efforts to fight the growing terrorism.

Ms Swaraj reiterated PM Modi's Dubai speech India where he had said that talks on terror were vital. "We also sense a need to develop a broader approach based on dialogue to shift from an atmosphere of mistrust and violence towards one which exudes confidence in peace and development."

Ms Swaraj, who held extensive talks with Egyptian leadership yesterday, proposed to step up exchange of information and coordination to combat terrorism, both at the regional as well as global level between India and Egypt.

"Our defence relationship, which is based on our traditional and friendly ties will be upgraded further to closer cooperation across the spectrum," she said.

More on regional cooperation, Ms Swaraj said that India will "strengthen coordination with the League of Arab States, work closely through the India-Africa Forum Summit".

Talking about the regional issues, she said the Iranian nuclear agreement can open up new vistas of cooperation and reduce frictions.

"India is a long-time friend of all the countries in the region and we have no major differences with any. We remain convinced that a new paradigm of peace, prosperity and stability will emerge."

India Committed to Comprehensive Fight Against Terror: Sushma Swaraj in Egypt

Must give comprehensive fight to LeT, Taliban, Islamic State: Sushma Swaraj to Egypt
Tuesday, 25 August 2015 - 7:17pm IST | Place: Cairo | Agency: PTI

FM Sushma Swaraj proposed to step up exchange of information and coordination to combat terrorism to Egypt.

• 

India on Tuesday called for a "comprehensive" fight against terror groups like the Pakistan-based LeT andTaliban which have grown in its neighbourhood and the dreaded ISIS that is now emerging as a threat in the Gulf region.

Visiting External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj while voicing India's concern over the growth of terrorism and radicalisation also said there is a need to develop a broader approach based on dialogue to shift from an atmosphere of "mistrust and violence" towards one which exudes confidence in peace and development. The comments came days after the cancellation of the Indo-Pak NSA-level talks scheduled in New Delhi that would have presented India an opportunity for a bilateral dialogue on terrorism.


In an address to a select group of Egypt's strategic thinkers and policy makers, Swaraj talked about the threat of ISIS in the Gulf region and that of Taliban and Lashkar-e-Taiba(LeT) in India's neighbourhood. "We are today witnessing growing violence and intolerance. The growth of extremism as represented by Al Qaeda and now ISIS in your region and that of Taliban, Laskhar-e-Taiba and others in our neighbourhood, are manifestations of this trend.

"We have to fight radicalisation and extremism, the threat of terrorism and the emergence of non-state actors who challenge the civilised world in a collective and comprehensive manner," she said at the prestigious Diplomatic Club here.

Swaraj said India remained concerned about the growth of terrorism and of sectarian violence in the region and stands committed to support efforts to fight this. "We also sense a need to develop a broader approach based on dialogue to shift from an atmosphere of mistrust and violence towards one which exudes confidence in peace and development." Swaraj said India not only condemns all acts of terrorism but joins hands with Egypt in the fight to remove the scourge of terrorism completely.

Swaraj, who held extensive talks with Egyptian leadership yesterday, proposed to step up exchange of information and coordination to combat terrorism, both at the regional as well as global level while elaborating on importance of closer security cooperation between India and Egypt. "Our defence relationship, which is based on our traditional and friendly ties will be upgraded further to closer cooperation across the spectrum. "At the multilateral level, we shall strengthen coordination with the League of Arab States, work closely through the India-Africa Forum Summit and further our outstanding cooperation at the UN and other multilateral bodies," she said before winding up her first visit to Egypt.

Talking about the regional issues, she said the Iranian nuclear agreement can open up new vistas of cooperation and reduce frictions.

"India is a long-time friend of all the countries in the region and we have no major differences with any. We remain convinced that a new paradigm of peace, prosperity and stability will emerge."

Must give comprehensive fight to LeT, Taliban, Islamic State: Sushma Swaraj to Egypt | Latest News & Updates at Daily News & Analysis

Sushma Swaraj Meets Egyptian President, Arab League Chief
All India | Indo-Asian News Service | Updated: August 24, 2015 19:46 IST

COMMENTS

File Photo: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj

CAIRO/NEW DELHI: Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Monday held talks on bilateral relations with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi and her counterpart Sameh Hassan Shoukry in Cairo.

Sushma Swaraj, who is on a two-day visit to Egypt, also met with Nabil El Araby, secretary general of the Arab League.

Indian ministry of external affairs spokesperson Vikas Swarup, in a series of tweets, gave an account of her meetings.


"Beginning at the top. EAM @SushmaSwaraj calls on President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi of Egypt to discuss bilateral relations."

"Moving Arab-India ties forward. EAM @SushmaSwaraj meets with SG Dr. Nabil El Araby @lassecgen at Arab League HQ," he said in another tweet.

https://twitter.com/x/status/635791750418685954

"A historic relationship renewed. EAM @SushmaSwaraj holds bilateral talks with Egyptian FM Sameh Hassan Shoukry."

In a further tweet, he announced India and Egypt had signed MoUs on scientific and technical Cooperation and tourism.

On Sunday, Sushma Swaraj had addressed the Indian community in Cairo.

"Your achievements make all of us proud." EAM @SushmaSwaraj addresses Indian Community in Egypt as her 1st engagement," Mr Swarup posted.

Sushma Swaraj Meets Egyptian President, Arab League Chief

@Sam.

Any idea how accurate this is and if there any more details?

https://twitter.com/x/status/635770565102440448

 

[Frogman]

My friend what source you need?

The sources aren't an issue. It's just whether the report that a joint anti terrorism group is to be set is accurate. That moves way beyond sharing information or intelligence.

Boosting cooperation between India and Egypt is a good step though. Our relationship should return to the partnership that once existed under Nasser.

@Abingdonboy

 

[Sam.]

The sources aren't an issue. It's just whether the report that a joint anti terrorism group is to be set is accurate. That moves way beyond sharing information or intelligence.

Boosting cooperation between India and Egypt is a good step though. Our relationship should return to the partnership that once existed under Nasser.

@Abingdonboy

MOU already signed.

Swaraj, who held extensive talks with Egyptian leadership yesterday, proposed to step up exchange of information and coordination to combat terrorism, both at the regional as well as global level while elaborating on importance of closer security cooperation between India and Egypt.

She proposed that and invited President Abdel-Fattah El-Sissi.

Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sissi met with Indian Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj in Cairo Monday and reiterated his intent to visit Delhi soon.

Now i think NSA level and external affairs ministry of both country would be working on this to set up a framework so it can be signed by both parties.

I expect it will be announced when President Abdel-Fattah El-Sissi will visit new delhi.

Also are not you guys coming for "Biggest diplomatic event: India-Africa summit from October 26"
Biggest diplomatic event: India-Africa summit from October 26 - The Times of India

More on regional cooperation, Ms Swaraj said that India will "strengthen coordination with the League of Arab States, work closely through the India-Africa Forum Summit".

 

[hkdas]

any cross training of special forces on counter terrorism??

 

[Sam.]

https://twitter.com/x/status/636130377547968512

 

[Frogman]

Also are not you guys coming for "Biggest diplomatic event: India-Africa summit from October 26"

We should have high level representation there.

 

[Sam.]

any cross training of special forces on counter terrorism??

It's already in building if you follow the signs

Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, meeting Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo. (Press Trust of India)

CAIRO: Faced with a spurt in terror attacks, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has expressed keenness to learn from India's experience in dealing with the menace.

President Sisi made this remark when Prime Minister Narendra Modi's special envoy Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi called on him in Cairo to invite the Egyptian leader for the Third India-Africa Forum Summit scheduled for October in New Delhi.


The two leaders discussed issues of mutual concern, including ways to counter terrorism, to boost bilateral ties.

"President Sisi commended the longstanding and distinguished relations that bind Egypt and India. He said Egypt is keen on further enhancing bilateral relations in various fields, commending India's experience in achieving political and economic progress," a statement from Egyptian Foreign Ministry said.

"On combating terrorism, the President noted that Egypt is interested in learning from India's experience in this regard, which the envoy welcomed," the statement added.

On his part, Mr Naqvi asserted that India strongly condemned the terrorist attacks in Egypt and stands firmly with Egypt in its efforts to fight terrorism in all its forms in order to be able to pursue the goal of comprehensive development.

Hundreds of Egyptian people, including over 600 security personnel, have been reported since the ouster of Islamist ex-president Mohamed Morsi in 2013.

During the meeting also attended by India's Ambassador to Cairo Sanjay Bhattacharyya, President Sisi praised the special bilateral relation between India and Egypt, which has a historical depth, presidency spokesperson Alaa Youssef said.

The former Egyptian army chief praised the Indian experiences in achieving progress and advancement in political and economic fields, which put India among the emerging international powers that are capable of achieving high and fast growth rates, Mr Youssef said.

Mr Naqvi, also the Union Minister of State for Parliamentary & Minority Affairs, said the coming period will witness a number of visits by senior Indian officials to Egypt, in order to stimulate the bilateral ties between the two countries.

He praised the sound progress Egypt has made in terms of security, political stability and economic advancement.

Mr Naqvi also met Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry yesterday and discussed the issues of bilateral interests.
Keen to Learn From India's Experience in Handling Terror: Egypt


Now

India, Egypt agree to step up bilateral cooperation
Last Updated: Monday, August 24, 2015 - 18:40

Cairo: Seeking to inject new momentum in their ties, India and Egypt on Monday decided to put in place a bilateral framework for enhancing cooperation in key areas of security, counter-terrorism, defence and investments.


Both sides agreed to step up engagement in a range of potential areas while underlining the need to combat terrorism particularly the threat of dreaded terrorist outfit ISIS in an effective manner as visiting External Affairs Minister Swaraj called on Egyptian President Fattah Al-Sisi.

The Indian side suggested that the ISIS should be fought in a "determined and collective manner".

Swaraj later met her Egyptian counterpart Sameh Hassan Shoukry during which both sides reviewed entire gamut of relationship and decided to diversify defence cooperation from training of personnel to defence production.

Secretary East in Ministry of External Affairs Anil Wadhwa, when asked about Swaraj's meeting with the Egyptian President said a bilateral framework of cooperation in all fields, particularly in the fields of security, counter- terrorism, defence and trade and investments are being put in place to step up engagement in these areas.

"The President said, and External Affairs Minister agreed with him, that it is a question of encashing on the goodwill that the people of the two countries have with each other into something concrete on the ground. He said Egypt and India should be working together visibly on issues of common interests to show to the world that we are together on certain issues," Wadhwa said.

Later Swaraj first had an one-on-one meeting with Shoukry before delegation-level talks.

"We discussed the three pillars of cooperation which are political and security pillar, economic and investments and people-to-people contact. We have decided to deepen cooperation in all the areas. There would be a joint commission meeting in January at the level of Foreign Ministers which will be preceded by a foreign office consultation in November," said Wadhwa.

Egypt has traditionally been one of India's most important trading partners in the African continent.

Trade between India and Egypt during the last financial year (April 2014 -- March 2015) has been recorded at USD 4.76 billion.

Most importantly, India is the sixth largest trading partner of Egypt -- the second largest export destination. India's imports from Egypt were worth USD 1.74 billion during 2014-15.

Indian businessmen have invested nearly USD 3 billion in about 50 companies in Egypt and have given employment opportunities to around 35,000 Egyptians.

In the meeting between Swaraj and Shoukry, both sides agreed to expand trade ties, holding that there are huge untapped areas for expanding the ties.

In her meeting with the President, Swaraj renewed the invitation to him from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the India-Africa summit later this year. She said Egypt has a special place for India.

"They also had a discussion briefly on the Palestinian issue. They also discussed situation in the region and on all these fronts I think our stands are similar. We will support each other at the United Nations as well," said Wadhwa.

Swaraj arrived here yesterday on a two-day visit.

India, Egypt agree to step up bilateral cooperation | Zee News

 

[Frogman]

any cross training of special forces on counter terrorism??

Far too early for anything of the sort I think. But the sooner the better really. Both sides could learn a lot from each other and hopefully reignite what once was a fruitful partnership.

 

[Sam.]

We should have high level representation there.

Indeed you guys should as relation between Ancient civilization Egypt and India go ways back.

India-Egypt Relations
India and Egypt, two of the world’s oldest civilizations, have enjoyed a
history of close contact from ancient times. Even prior to the Common Era,
Ashoka’s edicts refer to his relations with Egypt under Ptolemy II. In modern
times, Mahatma Gandhi and Saad Zaghloul shared common goals on the
independence of their countries, a relationship that was to blossom into an
exceptionally close friendship between Gamal Abdel Nasser and Jawaharlal
Nehru, leading to a Friendship Treaty between the two countries in 1955. The
Non-Aligned Movement, led by Nehru and Nasser, was a natural concomitant
of this relationship.

Currently

Important Bilateral Treaties and Agreements include
 Agreement on the establishment of the Joint Commission (1983)
 Agreement on combating international terrorism and trans-national
and organized Crime (1995)
 Agreement on Tourism Cooperation (1997)
 The Partnership Agreement (2006)
 Extradition Treaty (2008)
 MoU on Trade and Technical Cooperation (2008)
 MoU on Cooperation in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space for
Peaceful Purposes (2008)
 MoU on Cooperation in field of Health and Medicine(2008)
 MoU on Renewable Energy Cooperation (2011)
 MoU on Cooperation in the field of Environmental Protection (2012)
 MoU on Cooperation in the field of Electoral Management and
Administration (2012)
 MoU on Cooperation in Information and Communication Technology
(2013)
 MoU on Cooperation in Cyber Security (2013)
 MoU on the establishment of a Centre for Excellence in IT (2013)
 MoU on Cooperation in the field of Micro and Small Enterprises
(2013)
 MoU on Cooperation in the field of Protection, Preservation and
Management of Cultural Heritage (2013)
 MoU on Upgradation of a vocational Training Centre in Cairo (2013)
 Letter of Intent on cooperation in the field of solar energy (2013)
 Letter of Intent to Launch Egyptian nano-satellite (2013)

Far too early for anything of the sort I think. But the sooner the better really. Both sides could learn a lot from each other and hopefully reignite what once was a fruitful partnership.



View attachment 251139

that's Indian air force commandos and not army

The Garud Commando Force is the Special Forces unit of the Indian Air Force. It was formed in September 2004 and has a strength of approximately 2000 personnel. The unit derives its name from Garuda, a divine bird-like creature of HinduMythology.

Garud is tasked with the protection of critical Air Force bases and installations; search and rescue during peace and hostilities and disaster relief during calamities.[1] Presently, Garud's are deployed in Congo as part of the UN peace keeping operations.

 

[MICA]

Great news but this is just on papers now

 

[nForce]

Looks like we are going back to our NAM days, that once existed under the rule of Nasser.

 

[AZADPAKISTAN2009]

Its great Isreal is right across , look forward to attack on Israel

 

[nForce]

Its great Isreal is right across , look forward to attack on Israel

First Pakistani to post here. And as usual, he is more concerned about Israel, than probably the Arabs themselves are..