Natural Partners: Modi Details India-Israel Ties Soaring in Trade, Tech, Defence

In a keynote to the Knesset, Modi outlined a confident, forward-looking vision for India-Israel ties. He highlighted India’s status as the world’s fastest-growing major economy poised to enter the top three, and he said Israel’s strength as a global innovation powerhouse makes for a natural partnership. He urged expanding trade, investment and infrastructure cooperation, citing progress on a free trade agreement and the Bilateral Investment Treaty. Modi framed defence as a vital pillar, recalled joint innovation initiatives like iCreate, and pointed to emerging synergies in AI, semiconductors, quantum technologies and digital finance, signaling a deeper strategic and economic alignment with Israel.

In a historic moment, the Israeli parliament conferred the Speaker of the Knesset Medal on Modi in recognition of his leadership in deepening bilateral ties.

Breaking protocol, a warm embrace between Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Tel Aviv airport captured public attention, followed by a show of friendship during Modi’s remarks in Jerusalem. Netanyahu hailed Modi as a steadfast friend of Israel; Modi reaffirmed India’s firm stand against terrorism, supported peace efforts in Gaza, and highlighted India’s long history of harmony with Jewish communities. The visit signals a deepening strategic partnership rooted in trust and shared resolve.

Experts say the outreach could broaden cooperation beyond defence and trade to cutting-edge technologies, with potential joint ventures in AI, semiconductors and digital finance. If the FTA and BIT advance, investors and industry leaders expect faster collaboration on infrastructure, research and innovation projects across both economies.

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