India-Israel upgrade ties to ‘Special Strategic Partnership’ during PM Modi visit

PM Modi announced 'Special Strategic Partnership' upgrade with Israel in his two-day visit. Israeli PM Netanyahu praised India governance and together slamming terrorism in all forms. During the Visit, PM Modi also addressed the Israeli Parliament 'Knesset', during the visit both leaders also exchanged MoU's in key areas like economics and security. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held delegation-level talks on Thursday, boosting India-Israel ties.

The two sides exchanged Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) in the field of diverse sectors like economic, security, and diplomatic agreements.

During the joint press briefing, PM Modi announced the upgradation of ties between India and Israel to a ‘Special Strategic Partnership.’

“We have taken a historic decision to give our time-tested relationship the status of a special strategic partnership. This is a reflection of the aspirations of both the nations," said PM Modi.

Emphasizing India-Israel ties, also slammed terrorism and rejection of all forms of terrorism. “India and Israel firmly agree: Terrorism has no place in the world and must be rejected in all forms. We will keep fighting terror and its backers,” said PM Modi.

Both countries also stressed the collaborative efforts in the advancement of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the I2U2 initiatives.

While Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu lauded India-Israel relations and highlighted how AI and software enable precision education for all students, breaking past barriers. He stressed that innovation shapes the future, with India and Israel as proud ancient civilizations, partnering to lead it together.

Israeli PM also praised India’s governance and announed the the India-Israel G2G meet in India. He said, "We have decided to have a G2G meeting in India. As soon as we can arrange it, we would like to take the distinguished ministers who are here,” quotes ANI.

While PM Modi’s visit also underscored the ongoing Free Trade Agreement between the two countries, PM Modi said both countries will soon give final shape to a mutually beneficial Free Trade Agreement.

Apart from the free trade agreement, both leaders also announced developments and joint partnerships in areas like:

• Established Critical and Emerging Technology Partnership
• Signed agreement for UPI rollout in Israel
• Advancing cooperation in civil nuclear energy and space
• Developing future-ready farming solutions together
• Committed to creating Villages of Excellence

During his two-day visit, PM Modi also met Israeli President Isaac Herzog. The meeting underscored the growing strategic depth and global relevance of the India-Israel partnership.

In their discussions, Modi highlighted the vast potential of bilateral cooperation. He noted that the relationship "in many areas can be very strong and useful for the global good."

Focusing on key sectors, PM Modi pointed to Israel's specialised knowledge. "Whether it is science, innovation, or educational institutions, you have great expertise, especially regarding water and agriculture," he said. India has already adopted several Israeli best practices in agriculture with encouraging outcomes.

The leaders reviewed progress in innovation, water conservation, and academic exchanges. India has increasingly integrated advanced Israeli irrigation techniques and farm technologies into its national initiatives. Modi praised Israel's expertise and confirmed that India continues to scale up these proven models.