India, Israel Strengthen Ties on Security, Trade, and Connectivity
Israeli FM Gideon Sa’ar meets EAM Jaishankar to boost cooperation on counterterrorism, trade, and regional projects.
In a pivotal diplomatic engagement in New Delhi, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar met with India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar today. This was Sa’ar’s first visit to India, highlighting the deepening ties between the two nations amidst evolving regional security challenges and burgeoning economic cooperation. The talks focused primarily on joint counterterrorism measures, reinforcing zero tolerance for terrorism globally, and boosting collaboration in trade, infrastructure, and regional connectivity initiatives.
Both ministers underscored the shared threat posed by radical terrorism, with Sa’ar describing groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis as “radical terror states” that jeopardize regional stability. He reiterated Israel’s uncompromising stance on the disarmament of Hamas and demilitarization of Gaza, a core element of the US-brokered peace plan that aims to build durable security in the Middle East. Jaishankar welcomed these efforts, affirming India’s support for the Gaza peace process with hopes it will lead to “a durable and lasting solution.” He recalled India’s solidarity during testing times and the high level of trust between the two countries.
Beyond security issues, the ministers elaborated on broadening bilateral trade and innovation cooperation. Discussions included Indian expertise in rail, road, port infrastructure, renewable energy, and health sectors, with Israeli businesses keen on exploring these new avenues. The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), a strategic plurilateral connectivity initiative connecting South Asia, West Asia, and Europe, featured prominently, with Israel backing this integration. The ministers also highlighted successful agreements fostering professional mobility, with tens of thousands of Indian workers contributing to Israel’s workforce.
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Sa’ar praised India as a global superpower and economic powerhouse, emphasizing the complementary strengths of the two nations and their potential for a long-term strategic partnership. The visit set the stage for upcoming high-level Israeli visits to India, including a planned trip by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Both sides expressed commitment to advancing collaboration in areas ranging from agriculture and semiconductors to cyber security and artificial intelligence, underscoring a multifaceted relationship poised for growth.
This meeting reaffirmed the warm and reliable partnership India and Israel share, setting a forward-looking agenda balancing security, economic growth, and regional connectivity amid complex geopolitical realities. The dialogue represents a significant milestone in the evolving India-Israel strategic partnership with deep implications for regional stability and development.
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