Strong India-Israel defence partnership vital in 'uncertain world': Modi
'Soon, we will be among the top three economies globally. At the same time, Israel is a powerhouse of innovation and technological leadership,' he says
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pitched for a strong defence partnership with Israel in an "uncertain world," saying such cooperation between the two countries is of vital importance.
Addressing the Israeli Parliament, Knesset, on Wednesday, as the first Indian prime minister to do so, Modi said, "In today's uncertain world, a strong defence partnership between trusted partners like India and Israel is of vital importance."
Modi, who began a two-day visit to Israel, his first since 2017, condemned the "barbaric terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel on 'October 7'" and expressed solidarity with Israel.
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"We feel your pain. We share your grief. India stands with Israel, firmly, with full conviction, in this moment, and beyond," he said, according to the copy of his speech officially released in New Delhi.
He added, "No cause can justify the murder of civilians. Nothing can justify terrorism."
Recalling India's own experience with terrorism, Modi said, "India has also endured the pain of terrorism for a long time. We remember the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and the innocent lives lost, including Israeli citizens. Like you, we have a consistent and uncompromising policy of zero tolerance for terrorism, with no double standards."
He said terrorism seeks to destabilise societies, hinder development, and erode trust, and called for sustained and coordinated global efforts to counter it.
"Terrorism aims to destabilise societies, to block development and to erode trust," Modi said, adding that coordinated global action is needed because "terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere."
"That is why, India supports all efforts that contribute to durable peace and regional stability," he added.
Modi said the Gaza Peace Initiative, endorsed by the UN Security Council, "offers a pathway," and reaffirmed India's support for it.
"We believe that it holds the promise of a just and durable peace for all the people of the region, including by addressing the Palestine Issue," he said.
The Indian premier acknowledged the challenges ahead, saying, "The road to peace is not always easy. But India joins you and the world for dialogue, peace and stability in this region."
Highlighting India's historical ties with Jewish communities, Modi said they have lived in India without fear or discrimination.
"Jewish communities have lived in India without fear of persecution or discrimination. They have preserved their faith and participated fully in society. That record is a source of pride for us," he said.
He also emphasised the economic and technological complementarities between the two countries.
"For the last few years, India has been the fastest-growing major economy in the world. Soon, we will be among the top three economies globally. At the same time, Israel is a powerhouse of innovation and technological leadership. This creates a natural foundation for a forward-looking partnership," Modi added.
