Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Israel’s Holocaust memorial and hold high-level diplomatic meetings on the second and final day of his two-day visit, aimed at strengthening strategic, economic, and security ties between India and Israel.
Visit to Holocaust Memorial Yad Vashem
Modi will begin Thursday by visiting Yad Vashem, Israel’s official memorial dedicated to the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust. The visit symbolizes India’s solidarity with Israel and reflects the historical and humanitarian significance of bilateral relations.
The memorial visit is expected to include tribute ceremonies and interactions with officials to reaffirm India’s commitment to combating hatred, extremism, and terrorism.
Meetings With President Herzog and PM Netanyahu
Following the memorial visit, Modi will meet Israeli President Isaac Herzog to discuss expanding cooperation in defence, innovation, agriculture, and technology.
Later, Modi will hold delegation-level talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Both leaders are expected to exchange Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) covering key sectors such as:
- Trade and economic cooperation
- Defence and security collaboration
- Technology and innovation partnerships
- Agriculture and water management
These agreements are part of broader efforts to deepen the strategic partnership between the two nations.
Engagement With Indian-Jewish Community
Modi will also meet prominent members of the Indian-Jewish community in Israel, highlighting cultural and people-to-people connections that have played an important role in strengthening diplomatic relations.
The Indian-Jewish community has long served as a bridge between the two countries, contributing to cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
Modi’s Strong Support for Israel and Peace Efforts
Addressing Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, on Wednesday, Modi strongly condemned the October 7 Hamas attack, calling it a “barbaric terrorist attack.”
He emphasized India’s unwavering support for Israel while also backing peace efforts in the region, stating that “terrorism anywhere threatens peace everywhere.”
Modi also expressed support for initiatives aimed at restoring peace in Gaza, signaling India’s balanced approach of supporting Israel while encouraging regional stability.
Free Trade Agreement Talks Gain Momentum
The visit coincides with ongoing negotiations between India and Israel for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The first round of discussions is scheduled to conclude on February 26, marking a significant step toward boosting bilateral trade, investment, and economic integration.
Strategic Importance of the Visit
Modi’s visit is seen as a major diplomatic milestone, reinforcing India’s growing role in West Asia and strengthening its partnership with Israel in defence, innovation, and global geopolitics.
The outcomes of the visit could further expand cooperation in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and advanced defence technologies, shaping the future of India-Israel relations