"Continue to strengthen bond between Israel and India...": Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu
Tel Aviv, August 7
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday said that India and Israel will continue to strengthen their bonds.
He made the remarks in a post on X as he reshared Prime Minister Narendra Modi's post where the latter had informed about a conversation between the two leaders on Thursday, which focused on further strengthening the Special Strategic Partnership and also discussing the situation in West Asia.
He said, "Thank you, my friend, Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi. Together we continue to strengthen the bond between Israel and India."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a telephonic conversation on Thursday to review and expand their bilateral ties, with discussions centring on deepening cooperation across multiple sectors and addressing regional developments.
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal announced details of the interaction during the bi-weekly press briefing in New Delhi on Friday. Jaiswal noted that the call was initiated by the Israeli side and received by Prime Minister Modi.
"During the conversation, it was discussed as to how we can further strengthen this bond, this friendship that we have with Israel across various sectors," Jaiswal stated, emphasising the robust framework of the India-Israel Special Strategic Partnership.
According to an official press release issued by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), both leaders reviewed sustained progress in bilateral relations and reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation for mutual benefit. The conversation also included an exchange of views on recent developments in West Asia, with both leaders agreeing to remain in close contact.
This dialogue follows a previous telephonic discussion between the two leaders in March to address the regional situation. Economic and diplomatic ties continue to show strong momentum; in July, India and Israel concluded the second round of negotiations for a proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA), targeting an early, balanced, and comprehensive economic pact.
Highlighting the broader scope of bilateral relations, Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar remarked in June that bilateral ties remain on an "amazing trajectory" despite regional conflicts, driven by expanding cooperation in defence, infrastructure, finance, and trade.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While I appreciate the strategic partnership, I wish our government would also take a stronger, more balanced stance on the situation in West Asia. We must not forget our historical support for the Palestinian cause. Diplomacy should be about maintaining friendships without compromising on principles.
Israel has been a true friend in times of need — from defence technology to agriculture innovation. The bond between our nations is built on shared values and mutual respect. Great to see both leaders actively engaging to take this relationship forward! 👏
The fact that Israel initiated this call shows how much they value India's friendship. Given the volatile situation in West Asia, having open lines of communication is crucial. Let's hope this leads to more concrete cooperation, especially in technology and water management.
I'm all for strengthening ties, but we need to be careful not to alienate other nations in the region. India has always played a balanced role in global affairs. Let's ensure our partnership with Israel doesn't come at the cost of our relationships with other Middle Eastern countries.
Interesting to see from afar how this partnership has evolved. India has a lot to learn from Israel in areas like cybersecurity and startups. The FTA negotiations seem promising — hopefully it translates into real benefits for businesses on both sides.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.