Arab League chief Amr Mussa, a leading contender in the presidential elections, hailed the huge turnout stating that it is important for people vote to create a new Egypt which will only be possible if the Mubarak-era chapter is completely rewritten. These fast paced changes are pushing Egypt in the right direction. An appointed panel of experts drew up the proposed amendments in just 10 days, as the military council that took over from Mubarak strives to hand over power as quickly as possible. These are positive steps as the people of Egypt deserve a democratic set-up where rule of law exists and free will is respected. As a well-wisher, Nepal should hail the achievements of Egypt and look forward to a healthy and prosperous relationship in the changed context.
Nepal and Egypt currently celebrated 54 years of strong ties. Our relation with Egypt dates back to the important role played by the two countries in the movement of African and Asian Solidarity and the Non-Alignment Movement (NAM) during the period of cold war and decolonization. Nepal supported Egypt during the Suez War of 1956 and helped in the passing of the UN Security Council resolution 242 in the aftermath of Arab-Israeli war in 1967, and also at various other international forums. Egypt, on its part, has strongly supported the peace process in Nepal. Given the long ties between the two countries, time has come to implement the bilateral agreements signed between the two in 2007 and look for further avenues of cooperation.
The Agreement on Economic and Technical Cooperation and the Bilateral Consultation Mechanism should enhance bilateral relation and mutual cooperation, thereby opening other avenues to work closely in various sectors like agriculture, hydropower, health and tourism. As both countries prepare to embrace change, they should look forward to an advanced and more prosperous relationship in the future.
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