New Delhi, 25 February (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi touched down in Israel on Wednesday, warmly received at the airport by his counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu and Mrs. Netanyahu.

In a post upon arrival, PM Modi expressed profound honor at the reception, eagerly anticipating bilateral discussions to fortify the India-Israel friendship.This two-day state visit—Modi's second to Israel since 2017—comes at the invitation of Netanyahu, amid a blossoming strategic partnership.

Official agendas include high-level talks reviewing progress in science and technology, innovation, defence, security, agriculture, water management, trade, economy, and people-to-people exchanges, alongside perspectives on regional and global issues.

PM Modi is also scheduled to call on President Isaac Herzog and address Israel's Knesset parliament—a historic first for an Indian prime minister—underscoring the resilient democracies' shared vision. Netanyahu has hosted a private dinner, highlighting the remarkable partnership between the two nations.

The visit reaffirms longstanding ties, with defence cooperation elevated amid Middle East tensions, including potential deals like aerial refueling tankers for the Indian Air Force. Indian diaspora events and cultural exchanges further cement this multifaceted alliance.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar