Prime Minister Modi Embarks on Historic Visit to Israel

Modi's Two-Day Visit to Israel

On February 25, Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for a two-day trip to Israel, where he is set to engage in discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, deliver a speech at the Knesset, and connect with the Indian community.

In his remarks before leaving, Modi emphasized the strong and diverse strategic partnership between India and Israel, highlighting its significant growth in recent years.

He noted that this visit, prompted by an invitation from his close ally Netanyahu, aims to enhance bilateral collaboration in crucial sectors.

Modi expressed anticipation for his talks with Netanyahu, focusing on strengthening cooperation in areas such as science and technology, agriculture, water management, defense, trade, and cultural exchanges.

Upon arrival, Modi will be welcomed at the airport by Netanyahu and his wife, Sara, followed by a private meeting before heading to Jerusalem.

In Jerusalem, he plans to meet with members of the Indian diaspora and will be the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Knesset, which he described as a significant honor and a reflection of the strong democratic ties between the two nations.

Later that evening, Modi will attend an exhibition highlighting Israel's technological innovations, where he will meet prominent Israeli industry leaders. Netanyahu will also host a private dinner in his honor.

On the following morning, Modi will pay respects to Holocaust victims at Yad Vashem and meet with Israeli President Isaac Herzog.

The visit is anticipated to result in the signing of multiple memorandums of understanding (MoUs), including a significant agreement on defense cooperation.

Sources indicate that this upgraded 'special strategic partnership' will facilitate joint development of advanced defense systems and establish support mechanisms for mutual assistance.

As part of this agreement, a confidentiality protocol will be introduced, allowing for new categories of cooperation.

Local media reports suggest that discussions are ongoing regarding collaboration on air defense systems, potentially integrating India into Israel's laser-based air defense system, known as 'Or Eitan'.

Additional MoUs are expected to cover emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and cybersecurity.

The Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi stated that this visit will reaffirm the enduring strategic partnership between India and Israel, providing a platform to address shared challenges and strengthen ties between the two resilient democracies.

In recent years, India-Israel relations have seen a notable increase, particularly in defense, scientific research, cybersecurity, and innovation.

Defense collaboration has become a cornerstone of this partnership, with Israel supplying a variety of military equipment and systems to India.