PM Modi receives call from Israeli PM Netanyahu; discusses Special Strategic Partnership and West Asia developments
New Delhi, August 6
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday received a telephonic call from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during which the two leaders reviewed the progress in the India-Israel Special Strategic Partnership and exchanged views on recent developments in West Asia.
The details of the conversation were shared by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) in a release.
According to the release, the two leaders reiterated their commitment to further deepen bilateral cooperation across various sectors for mutual benefit.
The release said, "The two leaders reviewed sustained progress in India-Israel Special Strategic Partnership and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the bilateral cooperation across various sectors for the mutual benefit of the two countries."
It further noted, "PM Netanyahu and PM Modi exchanged views on the recent developments in West Asia. The two leaders agreed to remain in touch."
The call between the leaders comes after they had spoken to each other in March earlier this year, to discuss the current regional situation.
India and Israel have continued to expand cooperation across multiple sectors. Earlier in July, both countries concluded the second round of negotiations for the proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA), reaffirming their commitment to work towards an early conclusion of a balanced, comprehensive and mutually beneficial agreement aimed at strengthening bilateral trade, investment and economic ties.
Meanwhile, in June, Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar said that India-Israel relations continue to be on an "amazing trajectory" despite the conflict in West Asia.
Speaking to ANI, Azar cited expanding cooperation in defence, infrastructure, finance and trade with India for such a trajectory despite the conflict in the region, noting that bilateral partnership had continued to strengthen over the past three years, with both countries deepening engagement across multiple sectors.
— ANI
Reader Comments
India's diplomatic balancing act is impressive - we engage with all nations while maintaining our principles. The Special Strategic Partnership with Israel has grown steadily, and this call shows continuity, not just symbolism.
West Asia is heating up and it's wise that our PM is in constant touch with key players. Pragmatic foreign policy - we must look after our own interests, especially with lakhs of Indians working there. 👍
As an observer of Indian foreign policy, I find it pragmatic how India enhances cooperation with Israel in agriculture, water tech, and defence, while maintaining strong ties with the Arab world. This dual-track approach is the need of the hour in these volatile times.
Hopefully the FTA gets finalized soon - our IT and pharma sectors can really benefit from Israeli innovation. And also, it's important we keep discussing West Asia; the situation there affects our energy security and diaspora directly.
While strengthening ties with Israel is fine, I hope the government also keeps in mind the humanitarian situation in Gaza and continues to advocate for peace. Economic and defence cooperation should not overshadow our calls for restraint and dialogue. A balanced approach is crucial.
Interesting to see India's growing global role. The India-Israel partnership is a great example of
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.