Jerusalem

The proposed India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) figured prominently in discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said on Thursday.

Addressing the media at the conclusion of the Prime Minister’s visit, Misri said the corridor was discussed “at some length,” underlining its strategic importance for regional connectivity. However, he acknowledged that prevailing regional tensions could affect its pace of progress.

“The regional situation does weigh on the progress of the initiative,” Misri said, noting that stable ties among participating nations are essential for the success of the corridor.

Despite the challenges, he said some countries are moving ahead with specific components of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor independently to sustain momentum. He stressed that all stakeholders must work to ensure that the “extremely important initiative can move forward.”

During his bilateral talks, Prime Minister Modi also highlighted renewed momentum in cooperation under IMEC and the I2U2 grouping, which comprises India, Israel, the UAE and the United States.

“Today we also had extensive discussions on regional and global issues. While promoting regional connectivity, we will move forward with new momentum on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and India-Israel-UAE-USA, i.e., I2U2,” Modi said.

He underlined the link between regional stability and India’s interests, stating, “Peace and stability in West Asia are directly linked to India’s security.”

Referring to the situation in West Asia, the Prime Minister reiterated India’s consistent support for dialogue and peaceful solutions. He said the Gaza Peace Plan has opened a pathway toward peace, which India fully supports.

“From the beginning, we have supported dialogue and a peaceful solution. This is the call of the Global South and all of humanity. India’s thinking is clear: Humanity must never become a victim of conflict. The Gaza Peace Plan has created a path for peace,” Modi said.

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He affirmed that India would continue to engage in dialogue and cooperation with all countries in the region to help restore stability.