India and Israel Strengthen Strategic Partnership Amid Peace Initiatives

Strengthening Ties Between India and Israel

Jerusalem, Feb 26: On Thursday, India and Israel took significant steps to enhance their longstanding relationship by establishing a special strategic partnership. They also agreed to expedite negotiations for a mutually advantageous free trade agreement, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed strong support for the Gaza peace initiative.

During discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, both leaders signed multiple agreements aimed at boosting collaboration in various sectors, including trade, agriculture, energy, cyberspace, and digital payments.

Modi emphasized that their partnership is built on a foundation of trust, shared democratic values, and mutual understanding. He stated, "Today marks a historic moment as we elevate our enduring partnership to a 'Special Strategic Partnership.'"

Additionally, India and Israel committed to enhancing their defense cooperation by focusing on joint development and production of military equipment through technology transfers.

Modi also announced the formation of an India-Israel partnership in critical and emerging technologies, aimed at fostering collaboration in artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and critical minerals.

He expressed satisfaction over the agreement allowing the use of UPI in Israel, highlighting the growing economic ties.

In his address to the media, Modi reiterated that India's security interests are closely tied to peace and stability in the Middle East, affirming New Delhi's full support for the Gaza Peace Initiative.

"India's position is unequivocal—humanity should never be a casualty of conflict. The Gaza Peace Plan has paved the way for peace, and India stands firmly behind these efforts," he remarked.

Both leaders shared a common perspective that terrorism has no place in the world, vowing to work together in combating terrorism and its supporters.

"India and Israel are united in our stance against terrorism in all its forms. We have consistently opposed terrorism and will continue to do so," Modi stated.

They also discussed the implementation of the India-Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and collaboration under the I2U2 framework (India-Israel-UAE-USA).

Prior to his meeting with Netanyahu, PM Modi met with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, where they explored opportunities to enhance cooperation in education, startups, innovation, technology, and connectivity, as noted by External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

PM Modi arrived in Israel on Wednesday for a two-day visit, marking his second trip to the country in nine years.

The strategic partnership between India and Israel was first established during Modi's inaugural visit in July 2017.

In November, during Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal's visit to Israel, the terms of reference for initiating Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations were signed.

In September, both nations signed a Bilateral Investment Agreement (BIA) to enhance economic collaboration.

The strong people-to-people connections, with over 41,000 Indians residing in Israel, play a crucial role in fostering bilateral relations.

In November 2023, India and Israel formalized a bilateral framework agreement to facilitate the legal and temporary employment of Indian workers in Israel.

Since then, approximately 20,000 Indians have arrived in Israel through both government and private channels, as reported by officials.