Jerusalem: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day official visit to Israel, where he received a grand welcome from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara Netanyahu.
During the visit, PM Netanyahu hosted a state dinner in honour of PM Modi and surprised guests by wearing traditional Indian attire. Sharing the moment on social media platform X, Netanyahu wrote, “Before our joint dinner, I surprised my friend Prime Minister Modi by wearing traditional Indian dress.”
Warm Welcome at Airport
At Ben Gurion Airport, Netanyahu and his wife personally welcomed PM Modi. In a light-hearted moment, Netanyahu remarked that the saffron colour of Sara Netanyahu’s outfit matched PM Modi’s attire, drawing laughter from the leaders.
The ceremonial reception included a Guard of Honour, underscoring the significance of the visit.
Historic Address to the Knesset
During his visit, PM Modi addressed the Knesset, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to do so. His speech was met with a standing ovation from Israeli lawmakers, and the Speaker welcomed him in Hindi.
In his address, Netanyahu referred to Modi as a “great friend of Israel” and a “champion of the India-Israel alliance.” He warmly welcomed the Indian Prime Minister to Jerusalem and praised the growing strategic partnership between the two nations.
Strengthening India-Israel Ties
Netanyahu highlighted the progress in bilateral relations since Modi’s previous visit, noting that trade has doubled, cooperation has tripled, and mutual understanding has deepened significantly.
He described Modi not only as a friend but “like a brother,” recalling their earlier interaction along the Mediterranean coast during Modi’s previous visit.
The visit marks another milestone in India-Israel relations, focusing on expanding cooperation in trade, technology, defence, and innovation while reinforcing strong diplomatic ties between the two countries.
