Prime Minister Modi's Significant Visit to Israel: Strengthening Ties
Modi's Two-Day Visit to Israel
On February 25, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced a two-day trip to Israel, underscoring the growing and enduring partnership between the two nations. This visit marks his third journey to Israel in the last twenty years, having previously visited as Gujarat Chief Minister in 2006 and as Prime Minister in 2017 and 2026. During his initial visit, Modi participated in Agritech-2006, where he explored innovative Israeli agricultural methods, water management strategies, and sustainable farming practices. His 2017 trip made him the first Indian Prime Minister to engage in a bilateral visit to Israel, enhancing collaboration in technology, security, and agriculture. The current visit is anticipated to include high-level discussions on agriculture, water resource management, technological partnerships, and other strategically significant topics, including the Free Trade Agreement, further solidifying the evolving India-Israel relationship.
A Flower Named After PM Modi
Israel Honors PM Modi with a Flower
During his inaugural visit as Prime Minister, Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu toured the Danziger Flower Farm shortly after arriving at Ben Gurion Airport. Here, the first bouquet of a Chrysanthemum flower, named "MODI," was presented to him. Officials in Tel Aviv announced that this vibrant flower, known for its rapid growth, would bear Modi's name. At the flower farm, both leaders were briefed on the advanced research technologies utilized in floriculture, including remote sensing, GIS, and post-harvest innovations. Floriculture stands as one of Israel’s most sophisticated agricultural export sectors, and this visit served as a clear indication of the advancements in Israeli agricultural innovation.
Modi's 2006 Visit: A Delegate's Perspective
Modi's Role as Gujarat's Chief Minister
In 2006, then Chief Minister Narendra Modi showcased Gujarat’s agricultural vision at the Israel-India Business Forum, promoting the slogan “Per Drop More Crop.” This phrase later became the official motto of India’s Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana, the national micro-irrigation initiative. An internal report from the Gujarat delegation noted that his presentation received widespread applause. The concept of “More Crop Per Drop” closely aligned with Israel’s advanced agricultural practices. The delegation also explored Israel’s kibbutzim, unique communal agricultural settlements, the Volcani Centre (Israel’s leading agricultural research institute), and facilities for water management and treatment using recycled wastewater.
Historic Bilateral Visit in 2017
Modi's Landmark Visit as Prime Minister
In 2017, PM Modi made history as the first Indian Prime Minister to conduct a bilateral visit to Israel. The agricultural themes from his 2006 visit were revisited during this trip. Upon arrival, he was welcomed by Benjamin Netanyahu, and his first stop was a flower farm where a new white chrysanthemum named “MODI” was unveiled in his honor. This visit emphasized Israel’s advanced agricultural sector, particularly in floriculture, and highlighted innovations in water management and farming technology. A 3-Year Work Program in Agriculture was established during this visit, formalizing initiatives Modi had first discussed in 2006, including water conservation and partnerships with companies like Netafim. Modi also addressed the Indian diaspora in Tel Aviv, stressing that Israel’s agricultural expertise could facilitate a second green revolution in India. A pivotal moment occurred during a demonstration of Israel’s mobile water desalination technology, showcasing the importance of agriculture and water resource management in India-Israel collaboration.
Current Visit: Agenda and Significance
What to Expect from Modi's Current Visit
Prime Minister Modi's recent arrival in Israel marks his second visit as Prime Minister. He is set to address the Israeli Parliament, a historic first for an Indian leader. Upon landing at Ben Gurion International Airport, he was greeted by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, mirroring the welcome he received during his 2017 visit. The two leaders are scheduled to hold discussions shortly after Modi's arrival. Later, he will address the Knesset (Israeli Parliament) at 4:30 pm. On February 26, Modi plans to visit the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial, meet with President Isaac Herzog, and participate in the signing of significant agreements before returning to India in the afternoon. Notably, the initial round of negotiations for the proposed India-Israel Free Trade Agreement (FTA) commenced in New Delhi and will continue until February 26, aligning with Modi’s visit. The Terms of Reference (ToR) for this agreement were signed in November 2025, establishing a structured framework for discussions aimed at enhancing trade and economic cooperation.
Conclusion: A Stronger Partnership
PM Modi’s visit to Israel underscores the significant growth in the relationship between the two nations over the past two decades. Covering areas from agriculture and water management to trade and technology, this trip builds upon the experiences from 2006 and 2017. With high-level discussions, crucial agreements, and historic moments like addressing the Knesset, it is evident that the partnership between India and Israel is not only robust but also poised for future advancements.