Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day Israel sojourn culminated in an airport farewell brimming with camaraderie. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and his spouse Sara shared a heartfelt hug with Modi at Ben Gurion Airport on Thursday, encapsulating the visit’s success as he headed back to India.
This warm send-off came after pivotal talks that redefined bilateral engagement. Modi and Netanyahu consented to advance ties to a ‘Special Strategic Partnership,’ emphasizing renewed vigor in economic, technological, and agricultural domains.
Modi shared his insights on X: ‘Productive discussions with PM Netanyahu today. We’ve taken our partnership to Special Strategic levels – a decision mirroring our peoples’ aspirations. New impetus for economic ties and a partnership in critical technologies will shape the future.’
Spotlight fell on agriculture, identified as vital for mutual growth. Plans to multiply Centers of Excellence to 100 were greenlit, set to revolutionize farming practices for millions through Israeli know-how.
Injecting pop culture flair, Modi met ‘Fauda’ actors, tweeting a selfie with humor: ‘Just one selfie for this meet-up – no undercover ops needed! Fauda.’
The agenda included a presidential rendezvous with Isaac Herzog, covering education, startups, tech, and connectivity. A tree-planting ceremony symbolized sustainability, followed by Modi’s invite for Herzog to India.
Modi’s reverence at Yad Vashem stood out, joining Netanyahu and Dayan to commemorate Holocaust victims. He explored the poignant exhibits, including the ‘Book of Names’ for 4.8 million souls, and participated in a memorial ceremony.
The prior day’s Knesset address by Modi, a global first for an Indian PM, wove narratives of innovation, democracy, and resilience.
This milestone visit fortifies India-Israel synergy, heralding collaborative triumphs in innovation, security, and prosperity amid evolving geopolitics.