Tel Aviv (IANS) — Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Tel Aviv on Wednesday for a high-profile two-day State Visit. To mark the occasion, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife, Sara, broke protocol to welcome PM Modi at Ben Gurion Airport.
The two leaders shared a warm embrace on the tarmac. This gesture highlights the strong personal friendship that has transformed India-Israel relations over the last decade. Notably, this is PM Modi’s first visit to Israel since 2017.
Historic Address to the Israeli Parliament
During this visit, PM Modi will achieve a major diplomatic milestone. He is set to become the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Knesset, which is the Israeli Parliament.
According to PM Modi, this address serves as a tribute to the democratic ties between the two nations. Additionally, his busy schedule includes meetings with President Isaac Herzog and a visit to the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial.
Focusing on Future Technology and AI
While defense remains a priority, this visit focuses heavily on the “technology of the present.” Prime Minister Netanyahu confirmed that both countries will expand cooperation in several cutting-edge fields:
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Artificial Intelligence (AI) and High-Tech research.
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Quantum Computing and innovation.
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Water Management and sustainable agriculture.
“We want to be among the world’s leading nations in these fields,” Netanyahu stated during a cabinet meeting. He described the arrival of his “personal friend” as a historic moment for the India-Israel alliance.
Building a Strategic Axis for Peace
In his departure statement, PM Modi expressed his eagerness to engage with the Indian diaspora. He noted that the strategic partnership has seen “remarkable growth and dynamism” in recent years.
Furthermore, PM Netanyahu discussed a vision for an “axis of nations.” This alliance would bring together like-minded countries to promote stability and security across the Middle East. Consequently, this visit is expected to set new goals for a prosperous and innovative future.
