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PM Modi Honored with Knesset Medal, Calls It a Tribute to India-Israel Friendship

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred the "Speaker of the Knesset Medal," the highest honor of the Israeli Parliament, during his visit. He accepted the award with humility, stating it was a tribute to the enduring friendship between India and Israel, not just an individual. In his speech, he highlighted the over two-thousand-year historical and cultural links between the two civilizations, including ancient trade and the peaceful existence of Jewish communities in India. He also emphasized modern people-to-people connections through Yoga and Ayurveda, and invited more young Israelis to visit India.

Key Points: PM Modi Receives Knesset Medal, Highlights India-Israel Ties

  • PM Modi receives highest Knesset honor
  • Award for strengthening strategic ties
  • Speech highlights 2000-year-old historical links
  • Emphasis on shared values and people-to-people ties
3 min read

"Not tribute to an individual, but to enduring friendship between India and Israel": PM Modi after receiving "Speaker of the Knesset Medal"

PM Narendra Modi receives Israel's highest parliamentary honor, the Speaker of the Knesset Medal, emphasizing the enduring friendship between the two nations.

"This honour is not a tribute to an individual, but to the enduring friendship between India and Israel. - PM Narendra Modi"

Jerusalem, February 26

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed his gratitude after receiving the "Speaker of the Knesset Medal", calling it a tribute to the enduring friendship between India and Israel rather than to an individual.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, "I am deeply honoured to receive the Medal of the Knesset. I accept it with humility and gratitude."

"This honour is not a tribute to an individual, but to the enduring friendship between India and Israel. It reflects the shared values that guide our two nations," the post read.

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.

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.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
It's heartening to see the focus on shared values and people-to-people ties. The growth of Yoga in Israel shows how our cultures can enrich each other. More cultural exchanges will only strengthen this bond.
V
Vikram M
While strategic partnerships are important, I hope this friendship also translates into tangible benefits for our farmers. Israel's drip irrigation tech could be a game-changer for water-scarce regions in India. Let's focus on that.
P
Priya S
The part about Jewish communities living in India without persecution is something we should all be proud of. It shows our country's inherent spirit of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family). More power to such friendships!
R
Rohit P
Good diplomacy, but we must ensure our foreign policy remains balanced. Our ties with other nations in the region are equally crucial. The government must walk this tightrope carefully.
M
Meera T
The historical references are impressive! Hodu in the Book of Esther... it's amazing to learn about these ancient connections. Hope more young Israelis visit and experience our incredible diversity.

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