Narendra Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday jointly visited a technology and innovation exhibition in Israel, shortly after PM Modi addressed a Special Plenary session of the Knesset in Jerusalem.
Sharing the update on X, PM Modi wrote that after his Knesset address, he and PM Netanyahu were on their way to an exhibition showcasing advancements in the world of technology. He earlier described it as an honour to address the Israeli Parliament and interact with its distinguished members, emphasising the deep-rooted friendship and goodwill between the people of India and Israel.
PM Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Israeli Parliament. Upon arrival, he was received by Speaker Amir Ohana and accorded a ceremonial welcome. Ahead of his speech, PM Netanyahu, Opposition Leader Yair Lapid, and Speaker Ohana expressed bipartisan support for strengthening India-Israel relations.
Following his address, the Israeli Parliament conferred upon him the “Speaker of the Knesset Medal” — its highest honour — recognising his exceptional personal leadership in advancing strategic ties between the two nations. His speech received a standing ovation, and several Knesset members later interacted with him and took photographs.
In his address, PM Modi highlighted the ancient civilisational links between India and Israel, as well as the strong contemporary partnership built on cooperation in technology, innovation, defence, and security.
He underscored collaboration in agriculture, rural development, water management, sustainability, and enterprise, and acknowledged the contributions of the Indian community in Israel and the Jewish diaspora in India.
Reaffirming India’s zero-tolerance approach to terrorism, he conveyed condolences for the October 7 terror attack and expressed support for durable peace efforts. He also backed the Gaza Peace Initiative endorsed by the UN Security Council.
The Prime Minister called for deeper engagement under the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and I2U2 frameworks, welcomed the conclusion of the Bilateral Investment Treaty, and urged early finalisation of a Free Trade Agreement between the two countries.
Drawing parallels between India’s philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” and the Jewish concept of “Tikkun Olam,” PM Modi thanked Knesset members for their role in strengthening bilateral ties and conveyed greetings ahead of the upcoming festival of Purim.
