Web Desk (July 4, 2017): Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Israel on three-day trip for the first ever visit by an Indian premier, amid growing ties between the two countries including billions of dollars in defense deals.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other officials welcomed Modi with an official ceremony at Ben Gurion airport near Tel Aviv at the start of his three-day visit. The two leaders gave brief speeches, pledging to work together on issues related to security, agriculture and energy.
Indian Prime Minister termed the visit “groundbreaking,” while Netanyahu declared it was “historic”. They are to have dinner later Tuesday before talks on Wednesday.
Israel is constantly searching for allies at the United Nations and for new business partners; hence Israel has portrayed the visit as a major diplomatic victory.
Israeli analysts have observed that Modi is not scheduled to travel to Ramallah to meet Palestinian leaders during his three-day stay, as is common for visiting dignitaries. However, Modi had met Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas in New Delhi in May.
India is the world’s biggest importer of defense equipment, and Israel has become one of its major suppliers. Israeli media have reported that the two countries sign defense deals averaging more than $1 billion (880 million euros) a year.
They also hope to build on cooperation in areas including water and agriculture technology, sectors where Israel has excelled. India has traditionally voiced its support for Palestinian statehood, long shunning ties with Israel.
Modi’s visit marks 25 years since the two countries established diplomatic relations. The frost has further thawed in recent years, with India seeking closer defense ties — particularly as it moves away from relying on traditional ally Russia for its military hardware.
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