Prime Minister Narendra Modi etched history by becoming the first Indian leader to receive Israel’s Speaker of the Knesset Medal, the nation’s supreme parliamentary distinction. During his high-profile Israel visit, Modi dedicated the honor entirely to the cherished friendship between India and Israel.
This rare accolade celebrates Modi’s instrumental efforts in transforming bilateral relations into a robust strategic alliance. Posting on X, PM Modi wrote, ‘Honored beyond words by the Knesset Medal. With humility, I dedicate it to the India-Israel bond, emblematic of our guiding shared principles.’
Dr. S. Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister, lauded the moment as a true recognition of Modi’s pivotal role in forging and propelling the partnership forward.
In his Knesset address, Modi conveyed thanks and revealed, ‘India’s Parliament has launched a Friendship Group for Israel. I invite members to India for enriched dialogues among lawmakers.’
Turning to economics, the PM spotlighted India’s dynamism: ‘Years of being the fastest-growing large economy position us for top-three status soon. We’re dedicated to expanding trade, investments, and joint infrastructure initiatives.’
Modi eloquently connected cultural threads: Israel’s ‘Tikkun Olam’ and India’s ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ both advocate universal responsibility. As ancient civilizations, these synergies naturally strengthen our modern ties.
The conferment signals intensified collaboration across sectors, underscoring a friendship resilient against global challenges.