PM Modi to Visit Israel for High-Stakes Talks with Netanyahu on Defence, FTA and Regional Security
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to travel to Israel later this month for key bilateral discussions with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, marking a significant moment in India-Israel relations. Official sources indicate the visit is likely to take place on February 27-28, though final dates are yet to be formally announced.
This will be Modi’s first visit to Israel during his third term in office and comes nearly nine years after his landmark 2017 trip, which elevated ties between the two nations to a new strategic level.
Strengthening Defence and Security Ties
Defence cooperation is expected to dominate the agenda during the high-level talks. Over the past decade, Israel has emerged as one of India’s most important defence technology partners. From advanced missile systems and drones to cutting-edge surveillance and air defence platforms, Israel supplies several critical systems to the Indian armed forces.
The two countries have also significantly expanded collaboration in cyber security, counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, and homeland security. Both India and Israel have consistently supported each other in combating terrorism on the global stage.
India was among the first nations to condemn the October 7, 2023, terror attacks carried out by Hamas against Israel. Similarly, Israel backed India’s position following the Pahalgam terror attack in April last year. This mutual solidarity has further cemented the strategic partnership between New Delhi and Tel Aviv.
Fast-Tracking the India-Israel Free Trade Agreement
A major highlight of the visit could be progress on the long-pending Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two nations. Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar recently indicated that negotiations are expected to be fast-tracked.
The FTA aims to significantly boost bilateral trade, which has steadily grown over the years, especially in sectors such as defence, agriculture, water management, innovation, and high technology. Israeli expertise in desert agriculture and water conservation has already played a transformative role in several Indian states.
With business leaders expected to accompany the Prime Minister, the visit could also pave the way for enhanced private sector partnerships, technology transfers, and joint ventures in emerging sectors like artificial intelligence, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing.
Gaza Peace Plan and West Asia Security
Regional developments, particularly the situation in West Asia, are expected to feature prominently in the discussions. The Gaza Peace Plan — a multilateral agreement aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas — is likely to be reviewed during the talks.
Netanyahu has previously briefed the Indian leadership on the implementation and progress of the plan. India has consistently maintained its support for a just and durable peace in the region, advocating dialogue and diplomacy while condemning terrorism in all forms.
Given the volatile security situation in West Asia, both leaders are expected to exchange views on broader geopolitical shifts, regional stability, and global security challenges.
Personal Chemistry and Strategic Vision
The relationship between Modi and Netanyahu has often been described as warm and personal. Their public camaraderie during past meetings has symbolized the broader strategic convergence between India and Israel.
The invitation for this visit was extended during an animated discussion between the two leaders last month. Observers note that their personal rapport has contributed to accelerating cooperation across sectors, cutting through bureaucratic hurdles and fostering strategic trust.
Expanding Cooperation Beyond Defence
While defence remains a cornerstone, India-Israel ties now extend well beyond military collaboration. The two nations are deepening engagement in space research, innovation ecosystems, start-up collaborations, and digital transformation initiatives.
Israel’s globally recognized start-up ecosystem aligns well with India’s expanding technology landscape. Joint research and development projects, academic exchanges, and innovation partnerships are expected to receive renewed focus during the visit.
Agriculture and water management cooperation will also be key discussion points. Israeli-supported Centres of Excellence across India have helped modernize farming practices, improve crop yields, and promote sustainable irrigation systems.
A Visit with Strategic Implications
PM Modi’s upcoming Israel visit comes at a time of rapid geopolitical shifts and evolving security challenges. As both countries navigate complex regional dynamics, their strategic alignment continues to deepen.
The visit underscores India’s commitment to strengthening its partnerships in West Asia while maintaining a balanced diplomatic approach in the region. With defence modernization, economic expansion, and regional stability high on the agenda, the February talks could mark another milestone in the India-Israel strategic partnership.
As both nations look to the future, the upcoming summit between Modi and Netanyahu is expected to further solidify ties that have grown steadily stronger over the past decade.
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