Jerusalem

An ongoing visit by a senior Israeli defence delegation to India is expected to further reinforce the strategic relationship between the two countries, according to Israel's Ministry of Defence (IMOD).

The ministry said the visit highlights Israel's broader efforts to expand defence cooperation with key regional partners while advancing bilateral security and industrial collaboration.

Leading the delegation is IMOD Director General Major General (Res.) Amir Baram, who held discussions with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, and other senior officials from India's defence establishment.

During the meetings, both sides explored ways to enhance defence cooperation, including collaboration in military industries and technology partnerships.

In a statement, the Israeli ministry noted that the visit aligns with its strategy of promoting defence exports to support the modernisation of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), strengthen diplomatic ties, and boost Israel's defence sector and economy.

The ministry added that the outreach forms part of a wider initiative to broaden Israel's strategic partnerships, particularly in the East, and deepen engagement with important countries in the region.

Describing India as a vital strategic partner, Baram said the visit was the outcome of extensive bilateral preparations and reflected the significance both nations place on expanding their defence and industrial relationship.

He emphasised that India-Israel ties are built not only on shared interests but also on common values, mutual trust, and deep cultural understanding. According to him, these factors make the partnership distinctive and lend greater importance to the joint initiatives being pursued by the two countries.

India and Israel signed a memorandum of understanding in February this year, shortly before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Israel, outlining several areas for future cooperation.

According to security officials, the framework covers joint planning, military training, defence manufacturing, science and technology, research and development, innovation, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.

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Officials said the agreement is expected to facilitate technology sharing and encourage collaborative development and production of advanced defence systems.