PM Modi Honored with Israel's Top Knesset Medal for Strengthening Ties

The Israeli Parliament has conferred its highest honor, the 'Speaker of the Knesset Medal', upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The award recognizes his personal leadership in strengthening the strategic partnership between India and Israel. During his speech to the Knesset, PM Modi highlighted the ancient historical and cultural links between the two nations, dating back over two millennia. He also noted the growing popularity of Yoga and Ayurveda in Israel and invited more exchanges between the parliaments and youth.

Key Points: PM Modi Receives Israeli Parliament's Highest Honor

  • Highest Knesset honor for PM Modi
  • Recognition for strengthening India-Israel ties
  • Speech highlighted 2000-year-old historical links
  • MPs took selfies and gave standing ovation
2 min read

Israeli Parliament confers 'Speaker of the Knesset Medal' on PM Modi

Israeli Parliament confers the 'Speaker of the Knesset Medal' on PM Narendra Modi for his leadership in strengthening India-Israel strategic relations.

"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 25

The Israeli Parliament on Wednesday conferred "Speaker of the Knesset Medal" upon 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.

PM Modi said that at the heart of the India-Israel partnership are the ties between our peoples.

"When I first visited Israel in 2006, there were a handful of Yoga centres in Israel. Today, Yoga seems to be practiced in almost every neighbourhood. I am told that interest in Ayurveda is also growing in Israel. I invite more and more young Israelis to travel to India. They will witness the dynamism of our society, and experience what holistic wellness can do for the body and the mind," he said.

He said the Indian Parliament has set up a Parliamentary Friendship Group for Israel.

"I invite you all to visit India and look forward to having more exchanges between our Members of Parliament," he said

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
While the diplomatic achievement is notable, I hope this partnership translates into tangible benefits for the common Indian citizen, especially in areas like agriculture and water technology where Israel excels. The focus should remain on people-to-people connections, as the PM said.
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Priya S
It's heartwarming to read about the ancient ties and how Jewish communities lived peacefully in India. That's the real Bharat - welcoming and inclusive. Yoga and Ayurveda becoming popular there is also a great cultural export. More power to such soft diplomacy!
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Rohit P
Standing ovation in the Knesset! Wow. This shows the stature our Prime Minister commands internationally. The strategic relationship with Israel is crucial for our defence and technology sectors. Jai Hind!
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Karthik V
Respectfully, while we celebrate international honours, I wish there was equal fervour in addressing pressing domestic issues back home. A balanced foreign policy is good, but the yardstick of success must also be the ground reality for farmers and the middle class.
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Michael C
The historical references from the Book of Esther and Talmud are incredibly insightful. It's a partnership built on a deep, shared past. The invitation for more parliamentary exchanges is a smart move for long-term cooperation.

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