The Ottoman-French relations were begun in 16th
century and developed during the Tulip Period. France supported Ottoman Empire against
Venice and Austria. Mahmud II extended Suleyman Iís capitulation. But, this close
relationship was ruined in the 18th century.
After 1789 revolution, France became a republic. The
other European countries saw this as a danger and declared war against France. However,
they failed to defeat France in these wars. The French Army commanded by Napoleon defeated
nearly all their enemies except United Kingdom. France was intending to keep away the
British from the Mediterranean and dominate the trade roads through India. For this
reason, Napoleon made an expedition to Egypt and occupied Alexandria (2nd July
1798). After Alexandria, Cairo was invaded and the Ottoman Empire declared war against
France on 2nd of September in year 1798. The Ottoman Army commanded by Cezzar
Ahmed Pasha defeated Napoleon on 18th March 1799. Napoleon escaped to France
and the French Army withdrew from Egypt on 27th June 1801. El-Arish Treaty was
signed between two sides on 25th June 1802. The Ottoman Empire took Egypt back.