Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Feb 25: India and Israel are set to upgrade their bilateral ties to a “special strategic partnership” during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit to Israel beginning Wednesday, in what sources described as a “significant leap ahead” in relations.
The move is expected to place India among a select group of nations with which Israel maintains its highest level of diplomatic engagement, similar to its partnerships with countries like the United States and Germany.
This will be Modi’s second visit to Israel in nine years. During his landmark visit in July 2017, the relationship was elevated to a strategic partnership. The proposed upgrade will further deepen cooperation, particularly in defence, trade and advanced technologies.
According to sources, the enhanced framework will pave the way for joint development of advanced defence systems and formalise mutual support during times of crisis. “The two countries have been reliable partners over the years and it has been proven in hours of crises. This is only being formally recognised during PM Modi’s visit,” sources said.
Modi will be received at the airport by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara. The two leaders are scheduled to hold a one-to-one meeting shortly after a brief reception.
In Jerusalem, Modi will interact with members of the Indian community and address lawmakers at the Knesset — a rare honour accorded to select global leaders.
On Wednesday evening, the Prime Minister will attend a high-level technology exhibition showcasing Israel’s advancements, with leading Israeli industry executives in attendance. Netanyahu is also set to host a private dinner in Modi’s honour.
On Thursday morning, Modi will pay homage to Holocaust victims at Yad Vashem before meeting Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
Several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are expected to be signed during the visit, including a significant agreement in the field of defence cooperation. Sources indicated that a secrecy mechanism would be established under the pact, enabling collaboration in new and previously restricted categories.
Israeli media reports suggest that discussions will cover advanced air defence systems and potential integration of India into Israel’s laser-based air defence programme, known as Or Eitan. Cooperation in disruptive technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing and cybersecurity is also high on the agenda.
In New Delhi, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the visit would reaffirm the deep-rooted strategic partnership and provide an opportunity to address common challenges while strengthening cooperation between the two democracies.
Defence cooperation has emerged as a key pillar of India-Israel relations in recent years, with Israel supplying a wide range of military platforms and weapon systems to India. Ties have also witnessed significant growth in areas such as scientific research, cybersecurity, agriculture and innovation.