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PM Modi Honored in Israel, Strengthens Ties with Netanyahu at Tech Expo

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred the prestigious "Speaker of the Knesset Medal," the Israeli Parliament's highest honor, during his visit. He delivered a historic address to the Knesset, receiving a standing ovation and emphasizing the ancient civilizational links between the two nations. Modi highlighted growing cultural exchanges like Yoga and Ayurveda in Israel and the establishment of a Parliamentary Friendship Group in India. The visit also included a joint technology exhibition attendance with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, underscoring the strategic partnership.

Key Points: PM Modi Awarded Knesset Medal, Addresses Israeli Parliament

  • PM Modi awarded Knesset's highest honor
  • Speech highlighted ancient India-Israel ties
  • Focus on growing people-to-people connections
  • Both PMs attended tech innovation exhibition
3 min read

PM Modi and Israeli PM Netanyahu attend technology and innovations exhibition

PM Narendra Modi receives Israel's highest parliamentary honor, the Speaker's Medal, after historic Knesset address, bolstering strategic ties with PM Netanyahu.

"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

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday attended a technology and innovations exhibition in Israel.

Earlier, Prime Minister Modi addressed the Knesset and interacted with its distinguished members, highlighting the deep-rooted friendship between India and Israel and the goodwill of the people of India towards the people of Israel.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, "It's been an honour to address the Knesset. It was also a delight to interact with distinguished members of the Knesset. My address covered the deep-rooted friendship between our nations and the goodwill of the people of India towards the people of 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.

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

P
Priya S
It's heartwarming to read about our long history of welcoming Jewish communities without persecution. That is the true spirit of India - 'Atithi Devo Bhava'. The growing interest in Yoga and Ayurveda there is a beautiful cultural exchange. More power to such friendships!
R
Rohit P
While strategic ties are important, I hope our foreign policy remains balanced and prioritizes our national interests above all. The focus should be on tangible outcomes for our people - jobs, tech transfer, and affordable defense equipment. The standing ovation is nice, but what matters is what we bring home.
S
Sarah B
As someone working in the tech sector, this is exciting news. Israel is a global innovation hub. Collaborations in agri-tech, water management, and cybersecurity can be game-changers for India. Hope our startups get to benefit directly from this strengthened relationship.
K
Karthik V
The historical references from the Book of Esther and Talmud are incredible! It shows our civilizational links go far beyond modern diplomacy. Jai Hind!
M
Meera T
A respectful note: while celebrating this friendship, we must not forget our long-standing principles and relationships with other nations in the region. Our foreign policy has always been about strategic autonomy. That balance must be maintained. The speech was diplomatic and well-crafted.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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