New Delhi/Tel Aviv, Feb 25 (NationPress) As Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarks on his two-day journey to Israel, he expressed enthusiasm for his upcoming discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, focused on enhancing collaboration across various sectors and sharing insights on pressing regional and global matters.

Scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, this visit aims to set new objectives for the Strategic Partnership between both countries while advancing their mutual vision for an innovative and prosperous future.

This marks PM Modi's second visit to Israel since his 2017 trip, which paved the way for new opportunities in defense, agriculture, and water management.

In his remarks before departure, PM Modi stated, "India and Israel maintain a strong and diverse Strategic Partnership that has experienced significant growth and dynamism in recent years. I look forward to engaging with Prime Minister Netanyahu to further enhance our cooperation across various sectors, including science and technology, innovation, agriculture, water management, defense and security, trade and investment, as well as people-to-people connections."

He also highlighted his intention to discuss regional and global issues of shared interest with the Israeli Prime Minister.

During the visit, PM Modi is expected to meet with Israeli President Isaac Herzog to address bilateral concerns.

"I will have the honor of being the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Israeli Parliament, Knesset, an occasion that symbolizes the strong parliamentary and democratic ties that unite our two nations," he remarked.

The Prime Minister expressed his eagerness to engage with the Indian diaspora, who have long fostered the special friendship between India and Israel.

"I am confident that my State Visit will further solidify the enduring bonds between our two nations, establish new goals for the Strategic Partnership, and propel our shared vision for a resilient, innovative, and prosperous future," PM Modi added.

Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) indicated that the Prime Minister's visit would reaffirm the long-standing strategic partnership between India and Israel.

"This visit will reaffirm the deep and long-lasting strategic partnership between our countries and will offer a platform to review common challenges while realigning efforts towards achieving our shared vision for a robust partnership between two resilient democracies," the MEA statement emphasized.

On Sunday, PM Modi acknowledged Netanyahu's personal tribute during a cabinet session in Jerusalem, where the Israeli Prime Minister referred to him as a "dear friend" and highlighted his upcoming visit as a significant milestone in bilateral relations.

Responding to a video posted by Netanyahu on X, PM Modi expressed gratitude, stating, "Thank you, my friend, Prime Minister Netanyahu. I wholeheartedly agree with you regarding the bond between India and Israel as well as the multifaceted nature of our bilateral relationships. India values its enduring friendship with Israel, grounded in trust, innovation, and a shared commitment to peace and progress. I look forward to our discussions during my upcoming visit to Israel."

Netanyahu shared a video from the cabinet meeting on X, emphasizing the historical significance of PM Modi's visit and the strength of the India-Israel partnership.

He articulated a vision for establishing a broader "axis of nations" in the Middle East—an alliance of like-minded countries united "against radical forces" and dedicated to stability, security, and technological advancement.

Highlighting his personal connection with PM Modi, the Israeli Prime Minister praised their frequent exchanges and mutual visits, labeling the Indian leader not just as a partner but a "personal friend."

Regarding PM Modi's activities in Israel, Netanyahu noted, "On Wednesday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive. He will address the Knesset, and I am sure everyone will attend. We will also host an innovation event in Jerusalem and visit Yad Vashem together. Additionally, we will enhance cooperation in high-tech, AI, and quantum fields. I mention AI and quantum not as a future prospect but as an ongoing priority, as we aspire to be among the leading nations in these domains."