JERUSALEM – Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s brief yet impactful visit to Israel has been described as ‘rich and productive’ by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. In a detailed press briefing, Misri highlighted the warm reception accorded to Modi, the signing of 16 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), and the elevation of bilateral ties to a strategic partnership.
Despite lasting just over 24 hours, the trip packed in significant achievements. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed this sentiment, calling it a ‘special’ visit. Conducted at Netanyahu’s invitation, the tour marks a new chapter in India-Israel relations.
This journey fits into Modi’s broader strategy to deepen engagement with West Asian nations. In the past year, he has visited Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Oman, while several regional leaders have reciprocated with trips to India. Everywhere, Modi received the highest honors.
A standout moment was Modi becoming the first world leader to receive the ‘Speaker of the Knesset Medal’ from the Israeli parliament, recognizing his contributions to strengthening ties.
The visit kicked off with Modi paying respects at the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial, followed by a meeting with President Isaac Herzog. There, he planted an oak sapling under the ‘One Tree for Mothers’ initiative in the presidential complex.
Delegations-level talks between Modi and Netanyahu focused on expanding cooperation in science, technology, innovation, cybersecurity, agriculture, water management, defense, trade, and people-to-people contacts.
Post-talks, 16 MoUs were exchanged, covering key sectors like science, tech, agriculture, defense, and economic ties. The partnership was upgraded to a ‘Special Strategic Partnership for Peace, Innovation, and Prosperity,’ symbolizing deep trust and shared goals.
Misri emphasized how this visit not only cements long-standing bonds but also opens doors for future collaborations that will benefit both nations’ growth and security.