PM Modi Embarks on Historic Two-Day State Visit to Israel to Boost Defense and Tech Ties
What Happened Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to begin a crucial two-day State visit to Israel, aiming to heavily bolster the India-Israel strategic partnership. At the invitation of his "personal friend" and Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, the high-stakes diplomatic trip will focus heavily on expanding bilateral cooperation across defense, artificial intelligence, and quantum technology.
Where & When The official visit takes place across Israel on Wednesday and Thursday, February 25-26. The itinerary features high-level bilateral talks, an address to the Israeli parliament (Knesset), a joint innovation event in Jerusalem, and a visit to the Yad Vashem memorial.
Official Statement The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the trip will "reaffirm the deep and long-standing strategic partnership" between the resilient democracies. On social platform X, PM Modi stated: "India deeply values the enduring friendship with Israel, built on trust, innovation and a shared commitment to peace and progress."
Ground Situation Preparations are in full swing in Jerusalem. PM Netanyahu has already hailed the arrival as a "historic moment" during a recent cabinet meeting. He notably floated the vision of a broader Middle Eastern “axis of nations” united against radical forces, emphasizing a shared commitment to regional stability and security.
Background This marks PM Modi's second official trip to Israel, following his landmark 2017 visit that successfully unlocked new operational avenues in defense, agriculture, and water management.
What’s Next PM Modi will call on Israeli President Isaac Herzog alongside his comprehensive talks with PM Netanyahu. Beyond traditional defense and agricultural pacts, the leaders will aggressively push joint ventures in high-tech sectors. Emphasizing the urgency of this tech alliance, Netanyahu noted that AI and quantum computing are "not the future, it's the present," signalling a massive bilateral leap to dominate global innovation.
