Tel Aviv/New Delhi, Feb 25 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday held extensive discussions with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, reviewing the full spectrum of bilateral relations and exploring new avenues for cooperation in key sectors including water management, agriculture, and technology.
According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, the meeting was “productive” and underscored the shared commitment of both nations to deepen and diversify their strategic partnership.
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Israel earlier in the day on a State Visit — his first visit to the country in nine years.
In a special gesture reflecting the warmth of ties between the two nations, Prime Minister Netanyahu, accompanied by his spouse Sara Netanyahu, personally received him at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv and accorded him a ceremonial welcome.
Following the arrival ceremony, the two leaders held a brief one-on-one meeting before proceeding to wider delegation-level talks. During their discussions, the leaders reviewed cooperation across sectors and identified areas with significant potential for further collaboration.
“Had an excellent meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu. Expressed gratitude to him for the warm welcome earlier in the day. It is a delight to be back in Israel after 9 years,” Prime Minister Modi said in a post on X.
“We discussed a wide range of subjects aimed at boosting bilateral ties. Sectors such as technology, water management, agriculture, talent partnership and more offer immense scope for close collaboration. We also discussed key developments in the region,” he added.
The PMO noted that both sides exchanged views on regional developments and reaffirmed their shared interest in promoting stability and innovation-led growth.
India and Israel have steadily strengthened ties since the establishment of full diplomatic relations in 1992.
Over the decades, cooperation has expanded beyond defense and security to include innovation, start-ups, water conservation technologies, precision agriculture, and digital transformation initiatives.
Water management and agricultural innovation have emerged as flagship areas of cooperation, with Israeli expertise contributing to several projects across Indian states. Technology partnerships, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and clean energy, are also gaining momentum.
At his hotel in Tel Aviv, Prime Minister Modi was greeted by members of the Indian community and representatives of the Jewish Indian diaspora. The reception featured vibrant cultural performances by Indian and Israeli artistes, symbolizing the enduring cultural bonds between the two nations.
In another post on X, Prime Minister Modi said he was “deeply touched by the warm welcome extended by my friend, PM Netanyahu,” adding, “May the India-Israel friendship continue to soar higher!”
The visit is expected to further consolidate the India-Israel partnership, with both countries looking to leverage their complementary strengths in innovation, agriculture, water conservation, and high technology.
Officials said the discussions reflect a shared vision to elevate bilateral ties to new heights while working together to address regional and global challenges.
