Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Israel on Wednesday, February 25, for a two-day state visit. He was received by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara Netanyahu at Ben Gurion International Airport at 12:45 pm Israeli time. This is PM Modi’s second visit to Israel, during which he will hold important bilateral talks.
Agenda of the Two-Day Visit
Prime Minister Modi will meet with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during this visit. He will also deliver a speech in the Israeli Parliament, the Knesset, which is considered a special honor for foreign leaders.
The primary objective of this visit is to review the India-Israel strategic partnership and explore opportunities for further cooperation. The two leaders will consider expanding cooperation in science and technology, innovation, defense, security, agriculture, water management, trade, and the economic sector.
Regional Cooperation and Strategic Discussions
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has previously indicated that he wants to work toward forming a regional group with India, Greece, Cyprus, and some Arab, African, and Asian countries. This group’s objective will be to strengthen regional cooperation and partnership in security matters.
Prime Minister Modi Calls Visit Historic
Prime Minister Modi described his visit as historic. In a tweet before leaving, he wrote that this visit will give new impetus to the friendship between India and Israel. Israeli President Isaac Herzog also welcomed him and said that Israel and its people are eagerly welcoming Prime Minister Modi.
Opposition Expectations
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said she hopes Prime Minister Modi will raise the issue of the situation of civilians in Gaza and human rights in his Knesset speech. She also said that India has always stood for justice and truth and should maintain this position internationally.