Tel Aviv – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warmly welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Israel on Wednesday, praising the deepening ties between the two nations and highlighting India’s historic support for the Jewish people. The visit, Modi’s second to Israel in nine years, culminates with a landmark address to the Knesset, making him the first Indian Prime Minister to speak before the Israeli parliament. The atmosphere was notably convivial, with Netanyahu referencing a “Modi hug” as symbolic of the strengthened relationship.
The visit underscores a strategic partnership that has flourished since 2017, focusing on defense, innovation, and technology. Modi’s arrival comes at a time of heightened regional tensions, and his address is expected to reaffirm India’s commitment to Israel’s security. The two leaders are scheduled to hold wide-ranging talks, with defense cooperation expected to be a central theme, according to reports from India Today.
Netanyahu, addressing Modi directly, emphasized India’s unique position in the world. “India has stood out as a nation that has never persecuted Jews, only welcomed us. This will never be forgotten,” he stated, adding that Indian commanders fought alongside Israel during its early liberation efforts under the Ottoman Empire. He further described India as “an exception” in a world often marked by antisemitism, and affirmed that India has consistently “stood for Israel in times of need.”
The warm reception continued with Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana greeting Modi with a “Namaste” and a greeting in Hindi: “Knesset mein aapka swagat hai” – “Welcome to the Knesset.” Ohana lauded Modi’s leadership, noting his impact on sectors like public health and agriculture, and called it a “profound honour” to host the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Knesset, as reported by NDTV.
Historical Bonds and Strategic Alignment
Ohana also highlighted the long-standing historical connections between India and Jewish communities, noting that India has historically provided refuge to Jewish people. This historical context underscores the depth of the relationship, which has evolved into a robust strategic partnership. During his first visit in 2017, India and Israel elevated their engagement, laying the groundwork for increased cooperation.
Defense collaboration has become a cornerstone of this partnership, with Israel supplying India with various military platforms and systems. A defense cooperation agreement was signed last year during a visit by India’s defense secretary to Israel, further solidifying institutional ties, according to The Jerusalem Post.
During his address to the Knesset, Prime Minister Modi stated, “India stands with Israel against the Hamas attack. India too has faced terrorism,” demonstrating solidarity with Israel amidst ongoing regional challenges, as detailed in The Indian Express.
A Symbolic Visit and Future Cooperation
The exchange between Netanyahu and Modi regarding “the Modi hug” – a reference to a warm embrace during a previous visit to a water purification facility in Israel – symbolized the personal rapport between the two leaders and the strengthening of bilateral ties. This gesture, as noted by multiple sources, has become emblematic of the improved relationship.
Modi’s itinerary also includes a visit to Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center, a solemn acknowledgement of the historical tragedies faced by the Jewish people. This visit underscores India’s sensitivity to the historical experiences of Israel and its commitment to combating all forms of hatred and intolerance.
As Modi concludes his two-day state visit, the focus shifts to the implementation of the agreements reached during the talks and the continued strengthening of the strategic partnership between India and Israel. The deepening collaboration in defense, technology, and innovation is expected to yield further benefits for both nations in the years to come.
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