PM Modi Israel Visit Feb 25-26: India and Israel Boost Tech and Security Ties

PM Modi will visit Israel on February 25-26. This trip is expected to make the friendship between India and Israel even stronger, focusing on new technology and safety.
By Newsroom | International Relations, Asia |

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Israel, a trip anticipated to deepen existing ties between the two nations. The visit, confirmed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, follows a series of exchanges where both leaders have underscored the strength and breadth of their bilateral relationship. Discussions are expected to focus on areas such as innovation, security, and strategic cooperation, building upon recent agreements and ongoing dialogues.

India-Israel ties in focus: PM Modi’s message to Netanyahu before key talks - Here`s what he said - 1

Background and Visit Details

The upcoming visit of Prime Minister Modi to Israel is scheduled for February 25-26. This will be Modi's second visit to the country. The announcement of the visit was initially made by Prime Minister Netanyahu.

India-Israel ties in focus: PM Modi’s message to Netanyahu before key talks - Here`s what he said - 2

  • Key Dates: February 25-26.

  • Key Figures: Prime Minister Narendra Modi (India), Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (Israel).

  • Context: The visit follows discussions and exchanges that have highlighted the strong relationship between India and Israel.

Shared Vision and Friendship

Both Prime Ministers have publicly articulated a positive view of the India-Israel relationship, often referencing a personal friendship between them.

India-Israel ties in focus: PM Modi’s message to Netanyahu before key talks - Here`s what he said - 3

  • Netanyahu's Statements:

  • Described Modi's visit as "historic."

  • Referred to the bond between India and Israel as a "powerful alliance."

  • Stated that he and Modi are "personal friends" who speak frequently and visit each other.

  • Positioned the alliance as part of a broader strategic framework, including nations that "see reality, the challenges, and the goals with one eye, facing the radical axis." He mentioned a vision of a "hexagon" of alliances.

  • Referred to India as a "gigantic power" and a "global power."

  • Modi's Statements:

  • Expressed agreement with Netanyahu on the strong bond and diverse nature of bilateral relations.

  • Stated that India "deeply values its deep, enduring friendship with Israel."

  • Emphasized that this friendship is built on "trust, innovation and a shared commitment to peace and progress."

  • Expressed anticipation for discussions to further strengthen bilateral ties.

Areas of Cooperation

The discussions between Modi and Netanyahu are expected to cover several key areas of mutual interest, building on existing collaborations.

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India-Israel ties in focus: PM Modi’s message to Netanyahu before key talks - Here`s what he said - 4

  • Innovation and Technology:

  • Focus on high-tech collaboration, including artificial intelligence and quantum computing.

  • Partnership in innovation was explicitly mentioned by Prime Minister Modi.

  • An innovation event in Jerusalem is part of the visit's agenda.

  • Security and Defence:

  • Strengthening cooperation in security was highlighted by both leaders.

  • Reports indicate a focus on anti-ballistic missile systems and advanced weapons.

  • An agreement to increase defense and technology cooperation was signed in November, paving the way for stronger partnerships in areas like long-range standoff missiles, drones, and laser-based defense technology.

  • While specific defense pacts are not anticipated to be signed during this visit, an MOU on security cooperation is expected.

  • A shared commitment to "zero tolerance for terrorism" has been reaffirmed.

  • Economic and Diplomatic Ties:

  • Discussions aim to expand bilateral ties, including economic and diplomatic cooperation.

  • Efforts to build momentum towards signing a Free Trade Agreement have been noted, with ministerial visits occurring in the past year.

Itinerary Highlights

Prime Minister Modi's visit includes several significant engagements.

  • Address to the Knesset: Modi is scheduled to deliver a speech in Israel's parliament.

  • Visit to Yad Vashem: A joint visit to the Holocaust memorial with Prime Minister Netanyahu is planned.

  • Innovation Event: Participation in a high-tech focused event in Jerusalem.

Expert Analysis

Prime Minister Netanyahu has described the developing partnership between India and Israel as an "alliance between two global leaders" and an "alliance against radical axes." This framing suggests a strategic alignment aimed at countering perceived threats. Prime Minister Modi's affirmations of "enduring friendship" and partnership in "innovation, security, and a shared strategic vision" appear to echo this sentiment. The emphasis on personal rapport between the leaders, described as "personal friends," may serve to underscore the strong foundation upon which these strategic discussions are built.

Conclusion

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Israel signifies a deepening of the strategic partnership between the two nations. The stated focus on innovation, security, and shared strategic vision, coupled with the emphasis on personal friendship between the leaders, indicates a robust and multifaceted relationship. Key events like Modi's address to the Knesset and a joint visit to Yad Vashem will likely be significant moments during the trip. The visit aims to build upon existing agreements and explore avenues for enhanced cooperation across economic, diplomatic, and security domains.

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Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is Prime Minister Modi visiting Israel?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting Israel from February 25 to February 26. This visit aims to strengthen the friendship and cooperation between the two countries.
Q: What will Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Netanyahu discuss in Israel?
They will talk about working together more in areas like new technology, security, and business. They also want to improve their countries' overall relationship.
Q: Why is Prime Minister Modi's visit to Israel important?
This visit is important because it shows the strong and lasting friendship between India and Israel. It will help them make new agreements and work together on important global issues.
Q: What specific areas of cooperation are expected to be discussed?
The leaders will focus on innovation and technology, like artificial intelligence and quantum computing. They will also discuss security matters, including defense technology, and ways to boost economic and diplomatic ties.
Q: What other events are planned during Prime Minister Modi's visit?
Prime Minister Modi will also speak in Israel's parliament, the Knesset, and visit Yad Vashem, the Holocaust memorial, with Prime Minister Netanyahu. An event focused on high-tech innovation is also on the schedule.