Tel Aviv

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday held what he described as an “excellent meeting” with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, with both leaders discussing measures to further strengthen bilateral cooperation across key sectors.

On his arrival in Tel Aviv for a two-day State visit, Modi said he was deeply moved by the warm reception extended to him. “May the India-Israel friendship continue to soar higher,” he said in a post on X.

Later, reflecting on his discussions with Netanyahu, the Prime Minister said the talks covered a broad range of subjects aimed at enhancing bilateral ties. He noted significant potential for collaboration in areas such as technology, water management, agriculture and talent partnerships, and added that regional developments also figured prominently in the deliberations.

Netanyahu, welcoming Modi at the airport along with his wife Sara Netanyahu, described the visit as historic. In a message shared on social media, he referred to Modi as a close friend and highlighted the strong personal rapport between them, saying their relationship mirrors the growing partnership between India and Israel.

The Israeli Prime Minister recalled Modi’s landmark 2017 visit — the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Israel — and his own subsequent trip to India. He expressed confidence that the latest visit would further cement ties between the two countries.

As part of the itinerary, the leaders are scheduled to attend a reception at the Knesset, Israel’s parliament, participate in an innovation-focused event in Jerusalem, and hold a joint dinner. They will also visit Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center.

Netanyahu said the two sides are expected to sign a series of agreements covering economic, security and diplomatic cooperation following additional rounds of talks between their respective delegations.

The visit is seen as a significant step in reinforcing the India-Israel strategic partnership, which has expanded in recent years across defence, high technology, agriculture, water conservation and trade.

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Modi’s current trip marks his second official visit to Israel, underscoring the deepening engagement between the two democracies.