Jerusalem: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held official talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his State Visit to Israel. The two leaders decided to elevate India-Israel relations to the level of a “Special Strategic Partnership for Peace, Innovation and Prosperity,” reflecting deep mutual trust and a shared vision for the future.
Expansion of Bilateral Cooperation Across Key Sectors
The leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation in trade and investment, defence and security, space, energy, critical technologies, cybersecurity, education, scientific research, and innovation.
They also emphasized the transformative potential of collaboration in agriculture, water management, start-ups, fintech, digital healthcare, biotechnology, and advanced pharmaceutical manufacturing.
The move is expected to combine India’s vast market and skilled workforce with Israel’s globally recognized innovation ecosystem.
Focus on AI, Semiconductors and Quantum Technologies
Highlighting synergy between India’s talent pool and Israel’s technological capabilities, both Prime Ministers called for deeper collaboration in emerging and frontier technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), semiconductors, and quantum computing.
The two sides also agreed to expedite the proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and enhance innovation-led industrial and research partnerships.
Regional Issues, Gaza Peace Plan and Global Cooperation
The leaders exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest. Prime Minister Modi expressed support for the Gaza peace plan and conveyed hope for lasting peace and stability in West Asia.
They also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation under the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the I2U2 grouping (India-Israel-UAE-USA), while reiterating their resolve to intensify the global fight against terrorism.
Agreements Signed, Joint Statement Issued
Following the talks, several agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged. A joint statement outlining the future roadmap of the India-Israel partnership was also adopted.
Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Netanyahu for the warm welcome and gracious hospitality extended during the visit.
