External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem on Wednesday, reaffirming the strength and depth of the India–Israel strategic partnership. The meeting underscored the growing convergence between the two countries across key sectors, including technology, economy, security and people-to-people cooperation.
Sharing details of the interaction in a social media post, Dr Jaishankar said the discussions focused on deepening cooperation in technology, economy, skills and talent development, connectivity and security. He also noted that he valued Prime Minister Netanyahu’s perspectives on regional and global developments, reflecting the importance both sides attach to close political dialogue amid evolving international and West Asian dynamics.
India and Israel have steadily expanded their bilateral ties over the past decade, with cooperation ranging from defence and counter-terrorism to agriculture, innovation and high technology. The meeting in Jerusalem highlighted the commitment of both leaderships to further strengthen this partnership, especially in areas that are central to economic growth and strategic resilience.
Security cooperation remains a cornerstone of India–Israel relations, with both countries sharing concerns over terrorism and regional instability. The interaction between Dr Jaishankar and Prime Minister Netanyahu reinforced the shared understanding on the need for sustained collaboration to address common security challenges, while also promoting stability in the wider region.
During his visit, Dr Jaishankar also held a separate meeting with Israel’s Minister of Economy and Industry, Nir Barkat. In this interaction, the two leaders discussed ways to take forward investment and innovation cooperation between India and Israel. Emphasising the complementary strengths of the two economies, Dr Jaishankar highlighted the potential for greater collaboration in startups, advanced manufacturing, digital technologies and research-driven enterprises.
A key focus of the discussions was the proposed India–Israel Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Dr Jaishankar expressed confidence in the early conclusion of the agreement, noting that it would significantly boost bilateral trade and economic engagement. Once finalised, the FTA is expected to provide a major push to sectors such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, diamonds, defence manufacturing, renewable energy and high-tech industries.
Trade and economic ties between India and Israel have witnessed steady growth in recent years, supported by strong business-to-business linkages and increasing investment flows. The early conclusion of the FTA would further institutionalise this partnership, providing a stable framework for long-term economic cooperation.
Dr Jaishankar’s engagements in Israel reflect India’s broader approach of strengthening strategic partnerships in West Asia, based on mutual interests, economic cooperation and shared values. The meetings in Jerusalem reaffirmed New Delhi’s commitment to elevating its relationship with Israel to new heights, with a focus on innovation-driven growth, security cooperation and closer people-to-people ties.
As both countries look to navigate complex regional and global challenges, the discussions signalled a shared resolve to deepen collaboration and translate strategic intent into concrete outcomes for the benefit of both nations.
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