- 'Sectors such as technology, water management, agriculture, talent partnership and more offer immense scope for close collaboration,' Indian premier says

ISTANBUL

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday began a two-day visit to Israel, meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss bilateral ties and regional developments.

"We share a close personal relationship, speak often, and I believe that the deep friendship between us powerfully reflects on the ties between our two countries,” Netanyahu wrote on US social media company X, calling the Indian premier a “good friend.”

"We will attend a festive reception at the Knesset, visit an innovation event in Jerusalem, and host Prime Minister Modi for a joint dinner," he added.

The Israeli premier said they will convene another meeting with their respective teams during which the parties will sign a set of agreements covering economic, security, and diplomatic matters, aimed at further strengthening bilateral cooperation.

Modi, for his part, said his discussions with Netanyahu covered key regional developments and areas of potential collaboration.

“Had an excellent meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu. Expressed gratitude to him for the warm welcome earlier in the day. It is a delight to be back in Israel after 9 years," he said on X.

He said their discussions covered a broad range of issues focused on strengthening bilateral relations.

"Sectors such as technology, water management, agriculture, talent partnership and more offer immense scope for close collaboration."

Modi arrived in Israel early Wednesday for a two-day visit, his second since 2017, and was welcomed by Netanyahu at Ben Gurion airport near Tel Aviv.

He is also expected to meet with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and address the Knesset during his visit.

In a statement before flying to Tel Aviv, the Indian premier said the state visit will “further consolidate the enduring bonds” between India and Israel.

It will “set new goals for the strategic partnership, and advance our shared vision for a resilient, innovative and prosperous future,” he added.

The two sides are currently holding the first round of negotiations on the India-Israel Free Trade Agreement.

India and Israel are strategic partners. In 2022, the two countries marked 30 years since the elevation of ties to full diplomatic relations and the bilateral trade volume between the two countries stood at $3.62 billion in 2024.

*Ahmad Adil contributed from New Delhi