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Jaishankar Meets Israeli FM, PM Modi Honored with Knesset Medal

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar in Jerusalem for wide-ranging talks on bilateral cooperation. During his official visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honored with the "Speaker of the Knesset Medal," the Israeli parliament's highest award. In his speech to the Knesset, PM Modi highlighted the ancient historical and trade links between India and Israel, dating back over two millennia. He also emphasized that Jewish communities have lived in India with dignity and without fear of persecution.

Key Points: Jaishankar Meets Israeli FM, Modi Gets Knesset Medal

  • Jaishankar meets Israeli FM in Jerusalem
  • PM Modi on official visit to Israel
  • Modi conferred highest Knesset honor
  • Speech highlights ancient India-Israel ties
  • Jewish communities lived in India without persecution
2 min read

EAM Jaishankar meets Israeli FM, discusses bilateral ties and regional developments

EAM Jaishankar meets Israeli FM Gideon Saar. PM Modi receives the Knesset's highest honor during his Israel visit, strengthening bilateral ties.

"Long before we related to each other as modern States, we were linked by ties that go back more than two thousand years. - PM Narendra Modi"

Jerusalem, February 26

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said he was "delighted to meet" Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar and his team in Jerusalem, highlighting their wide-ranging discussions on bilateral cooperation and regional developments.

In a post on X, Jaishankar wrote, "Delighted to meet Israeli FM @gidonsaarand his team in Jerusalem this evening. Valued our wide-ranging and open conversation on our bilateral cooperation and regional developments."

At the moment, PM Modi is on a two-day official visit to Israel.

The Israeli Parliament on Wednesday conferred the "Speaker of the Knesset Medal" on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This is the highest honour of the Knesset.

The award was conferred in recognition of PM Modi's "exceptional contribution through his personal leadership" to strengthen strategic relations between India and Israel.

The medal was conferred after PM Modi's speech in the Israeli Parliament.

After his speech, PM Modi interacted with members of the Israeli parliament, the Knesset. The MPs took selfies and photographs with PM Modi.

PM Modi received a standing ovation during his speech, which was also marked by rapturous applause.

In his speech, PM Modi said there is great admiration for Israel's resolve, courage, and achievements in India.

"Long before we related to each other as modern States, we were linked by ties that go back more than two thousand years. The Book of Esther refers to India as Hodu. The Talmud records trade with India in ancient times," he said.

"Jewish merchants travelled across sea routes that connected the Mediterranean with the Indian Ocean. They came seeking opportunity and dignity. And, in India, they became one of us. Jewish communities have lived in India without fear of persecution or discrimination. They have preserved their faith and participated fully in society. That record is a source of pride for us," he added.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
While strengthening ties is good, I hope our foreign policy remains balanced in the region. We have important relationships with other Middle Eastern countries too. The focus should be on what benefits the common Indian citizen most.
P
Priya S
The historical connection mentioned by PM Modi is fascinating. Jewish communities have indeed been part of India's fabric for centuries without persecution. That's something we should all be proud of as Indians.
R
Rohit P
Standing ovation in the Knesset! That's huge. Our PM is getting respect on the global stage. Hope this translates into more tech transfers, especially in agriculture and defence, for our country.
K
Kavya N
Jaishankar and Modi are doing a great job. The "Speaker of the Knesset Medal" is a prestigious honour. Our foreign policy is finally getting the strong, clear direction it needed. More power to them!
M
Michael C
As an observer, it's impressive to see India's diplomatic outreach. The emphasis on ancient trade and cultural links, beyond just modern politics, adds a unique depth to the relationship. Well articulated.

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