Jerusalem/New Delhi, Feb 22 (NationPress) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Sunday that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Israel on February 25 for a two-day official engagement, marking his second trip since his groundbreaking visit in 2017.

During Israel's weekly Cabinet meeting, which was shared on social media, Netanyahu characterized this upcoming visit as a significant demonstration of the special relationship that has developed between Israel and India, referring to India as a global power.

"On Wednesday, my friend Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India, will be in Israel. I envision creating a comprehensive system of alliances within the Middle East, a coalition of countries that share a common understanding of the challenges and goals we face against radical elements," stated the Israeli Prime Minister.

Netanyahu stressed the close personal bond he shares with PM Modi, mentioning their frequent phone conversations and mutual visits. "We are personal friends," he added, reflecting the warmth in the bilateral relationship.

He articulated his vision for the visit as a means to advance a broader strategic framework, aiming to establish a hexagon of alliances in and around the Middle East that can collectively tackle regional issues and counter radical forces.

According to Netanyahu, we have a unique alliance with the US—both at the state level and personally with President Trump. However, this does not deter us from seeking further alliances; indeed, we actively cultivate them.

The upcoming visit is anticipated to strengthen these alliances and enhance collaboration between Israel and India in various domains, including economic, diplomatic, and security.

PM Modi's itinerary for February 25-26 includes addressing the Knesset (Israel's Parliament), a joint visit to Yad Vashem—the Holocaust memorial—with Netanyahu, and participation in a high-tech innovation event in Jerusalem focused on cutting-edge areas like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and other emerging technologies.

This trip comes almost nine years after PM Modi's historic 2017 visit—the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Israel—which significantly enhanced ties in defense, agriculture, water management, and innovation.

Netanyahu's reciprocal visit to India in 2018 further cemented this bilateral partnership.

In light of the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, PM Modi's visit represents India's strategic realignment and growing synergy with Israel on matters of counter-terrorism, defense procurement, and technology exchange.

The discussions are expected to encompass topics such as expanding trade, defense agreements, cybersecurity, and regional stability.

This announcement has gained attention amid Israel's political landscape, with some opposition leaders expressing procedural concerns regarding the Knesset address.

The visit is perceived as a reinforcement of the strong alliance between the two democracies, with both nations eager to elevate cooperation in the face of common threats and promote mutual development.