In a warm gesture reflecting strengthening relations between the two countries, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warmly welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi upon his arrival in Tel Aviv on Wednesday for a two-day state visit.
Taking to social media platform
The post, which featured the Indian and Israeli flags along with a “Namaste” emoji, emphasized the personal relationship between the two leaders as the visit began with an invitation from Netanyahu to further strengthen the “strong and multifaceted strategic partnership” between the two countries.
Upon his arrival at Ben Gurion Airport, Prime Minister Modi was received by a guard of honour.
Read also | Netanyahu brings up the “six-party” alliance ahead of Modi’s visit to Israel. Why does he want India to join the Axis?
Reflecting the close personal relationship between the two leaders, Netanyahu, accompanied by his wife Sarah Netanyahu, personally welcomed the Prime Minister, as the two leaders exchanged a warm embrace.
Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar was also among the high-ranking officials who came to receive Prime Minister Modi.
Before his departure, Prime Minister Modi described the visit as an opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations.
“India and Israel share a strong, multifaceted strategic partnership that has witnessed remarkable growth and dynamism in recent years,” his statement noted, highlighting the trajectory of the relationship.
The Prime Minister expressed his aspiration to hold talks with his Israeli counterpart aimed at expanding cooperation in various sectors.
Earlier, anticipation for the visit was clear on the ground, as the streets of Jerusalem carried a familiar noise. The tricolor was placed on storefronts, community leaders coordinated welcome rallies, and conversations in Hindi resonated in neighborhoods where the Indian community was visible.
During the high-level visit, the Prime Minister is scheduled to meet President Isaac Herzog and will also address the Knesset, Israel’s parliament, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to do so.
Before this historic speech in the Israeli Parliament, Prime Minister Modi will hold a short meeting with Netanyahu today.
These sentiments of mutual respect were echoed by Israeli President Herzog, who had earlier expressed his enthusiasm for Prime Minister Modi’s visit, noting that the country and its people look forward to welcoming him.
In a post on X, Herzog shared Prime Minister Modi’s passing statement, sending a warm message emphasizing close ties.
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the State of Israel and the people of Israel look forward to welcoming you to Israel.”
